from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Nib \Nib\ (n[i^]b), n. [A variabt of neb.]
1. A small and pointed thing or part; a point; a prong. "The
little nib or fructifying principle." --Sir T. Browne.
[1913 Webster]
2. (Zool.) The bill or beak of a bird; the neb.
[1913 Webster]
3. The points of a pen; also, the pointed part of a pen; a
short pen adapted for insertion in a holder.
[1913 Webster]
4. One of the handles which project from a scythe snath;
also, [Prov. Eng.], the shaft of a wagon.
[1913 Webster]
5. pl. See {his nibs}, below.
[PJC]
{his nibs} Someone who gives a command or makes a demand,
often one who acts in a self-important manner, sometimes
one with authority; -- used mockingly as a jocose term, as
if a title of honor, but not usually in the presence of
the person referred to, and usually indicating resentment
or contempt. [Colloq.]
[PJC]