tipsy

[ tip-see ]

adjective

, tip·si·er, tip·si·est.

1. slightly intoxicated or drunk.
2. characterized by or due to intoxication:

   a tipsy lurch.

3. tipping, unsteady, or tilted, as if from intoxication.

tipsy

/ ˈtɪpsɪ /

adjective

1. slightly drunk
2. slightly tilted or tipped; askew

Derived Forms

• ˈtipsily, adverb
• ˈtipsiness, noun

Other Words From

• tipsi·ly adverb
• tipsi·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of tipsy¹

1570–80; tip ² or obsolete tip strong drink (perhaps back formation from tipple ¹ ) + -sy. Compare obsolete bumpsy in same sense

Word History and Origins

Origin of tipsy¹

C16: from tip ²

Example Sentences

She could have been hungover, plastered, tipsy — you know, any place in it.

From Salon

I was feeling good, but nowhere near tipsy.

From Salon

The “America’s Got Talent” judge recalled Monday on “Live With Kelly and Mark” that a “tipsy” Terry, who had had dinner and drinks earlier, had gotten up at night and then “headed into the wall.”

From Los Angeles Times

A game that began with a handful of fans tipsy on cheap beer running across the outfield grass — some of them naked — collapsed into chaos.

From Seattle Times

The tipsy banter was probably more suited for a midnight set in the Belly Room of the Comedy Store.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• addled
• dazed
• intoxicated
• unsteady
• woozy