The pointed tips of pens that distribute ink; also small pieces or nibbles of something, especially chocolate or grain.
From Middle English 'neb' or 'nib,' derived from Old English 'nebba,' meaning nose or beak. The word transferred to pen points because they resembled tiny beaks, and also to small food pieces that you peck at.
The word 'nibs' connects writing, eating, and beaks—which isn't random: all three involve a small pointed part interacting with something, which is why one word captured all three meanings in English.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.