micky: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Informal, Slang
Quick answer
What does “micky” mean?
A diminutive, nickname, or informal term, most commonly derived from the given name Michael or, in certain contexts, as part of the idiom 'take the mickey'.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A diminutive, nickname, or informal term, most commonly derived from the given name Michael or, in certain contexts, as part of the idiom 'take the mickey'.
In British and Commonwealth English, primarily used in the fixed phrase 'take the mickey' (or 'mick'), meaning to tease or ridicule someone. As a proper noun, a common nickname for someone named Michael. Less commonly, can refer to a small or mischievous person or creature.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'micky' is primarily known from the idiom 'take the mickey' (often shortened to 'take the mick'). In American English, this idiom is virtually unknown. Americans are more likely to recognise 'Micky' as a proper name (e.g., Micky Mouse) or the slang term 'mickey' (a spiked drink).
Connotations
In the British idiom, connotations are of light-hearted, mocking banter. In American contexts, unrelated connotations exist (e.g., a 'mickey' is a small bottle of liquor or a drugged drink, carrying potentially negative or criminal associations).
Frequency
High frequency in UK English within the fixed idiom. Very low frequency in US English, except as a proper name.
Grammar
How to Use “micky” in a Sentence
[Verb Phrase] take the mickey (out of [someone])Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Extremely rare; would only appear in very informal banter between close colleagues.
Academic
Never used in formal academic writing. Might appear in sociolinguistic studies of slang or informal discourse analysis.
Everyday
Common in UK/Commonwealth informal speech within the idiom. Used as a familiar nickname.
Technical
Not applicable.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “micky”
- Using 'micky' as a countable noun (e.g., 'He said a micky to me').
- Using the idiom in formal writing.
- Assuming the idiom is understood in American contexts.
- Misspelling the idiom as 'take the mickie' or 'take the mikey'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Outside of being a nickname (proper noun) or part of the fixed idiom 'take the mickey', it has very little independent lexical meaning. It is not a standard countable noun.
There is no difference in meaning. 'Take the mick' is simply a shortened, more casual form of 'take the mickey'. Both are widely used in British English.
No, it is far too informal for standard professional written communication. It is suited only for casual spoken contexts or very informal written messages between close colleagues.
Use phrases like 'tease', 'make fun of', 'poke fun at', or 'rib' (e.g., 'They ribbed him about his tie'). The exact idiom does not translate directly.
A diminutive, nickname, or informal term, most commonly derived from the given name Michael or, in certain contexts, as part of the idiom 'take the mickey'.
Micky is usually informal, slang in register.
Micky: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmɪki/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmɪki/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “take the mickey (out of someone)”
- “Micky-taking (noun, UK informal)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of MICKey Mouse, who is a playful character. 'Taking the MICKey' is like playfully mimicking or mocking someone.
Conceptual Metaphor
TEASING IS TAKING SOMETHING (an abstract possession) FROM SOMEONE.
Practice
Quiz
In which variety of English is the idiom 'take the mickey' most commonly used and understood?