Nimble/ˈnɪmbl/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Physical Agility Use 'nimble' when describing someone's smooth, skillful physical movements, not just speed. Her nimble steps allowed her to excel in ballet. Pro Tip 2/3Not Always Positive 'Nimble' can be neutral; not always a compliment, depending on the context. The thief's nimble escape frustrated the police. Pro Tip 3/3Physical Context Use 'nimble' for living beings, typically not for objects or abstract concepts. The cat's nimble movements were mesmerizing.