At the very last possible moment before it's too late; just in time to prevent disaster or meet a deadline. It describes perfect timing when success or safety depends on split-second precision.
Dating to the 16th century, 'nick' originally referred to a precise notch or cut, particularly the critical moment in time-keeping devices. The phrase evolved from the idea of hitting the exact 'nick' or notch that marked the crucial moment, with 'nick' deriving from Middle English meaning a precise cut or indentation.
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