ˈtɪpsɪ adj. (tipsier, tipsiest) 1 slightly intoxicated. 2 caused by or showing intoxication (a tipsy leer). øtipsy-cake Brit. a spongecake soaked in wine or spirits and served withcustard. øøtipsily adv. tipsiness n. [prob. f. TIP(2) = inclined to lean, unsteady: for -sy cf. FLIMSY, TRICKSY]