Words nicking and resembling one another are applicable to
different significations.
Camden.
4. To hit at, or in, the nick; to touch rightly; to strike at the
precise point or time.
The just season of doing things must be nicked, and all accidents
improved.
L'Estrange.
5. To make a cross cut or cuts on the under side of (the tail of a
horse, in order to make him carry it higher).