pinch off

In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.

Meaning · English

To separate (something) from something else, using a pinching motion.

Where it’s used: Used American English

Examples

Jackie Allen was my friend Phil’s girlfriend, and I pinched her off him, slowly, patiently, over a period of months.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “pinch off” mean?

To separate (something) from something else, using a pinching motion.

Is “pinch off” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.