Pronunciation: [nˈa͡ɪs nˈɛli] (IPA) 
"Nice Nelly" is a phrase typically used to describe someone who is overly cautious or prudish. The word "nice" is spelled as it sounds, with the "n" making the /n/ sound, the "i" making the /aɪ/ sound, the "c" making the /s/ sound, and the "e" making the /ɛ/ sound. "Nelly" is also spelled as it sounds, with the "n" making the /n/ sound, the "e" making the /ɛ/ sound, the first "l" silent, and the second "l" making the /i/ sound.
Nice Nelly is a colloquial term used to describe an individual, typically a woman, who consistently displays an overly polite or prudish behavior. It refers to someone who tends to be excessively concerned with retaining a proper decorum and adhering to societal norms, often to the point of being overly cautious or conservative in their actions and speech.
The phrase "nice" in this context implies a trait of being excessively polite and well-mannered, lacking an appropriate balance between politeness and authenticity. The term "nelly" refers to a person who is easily flustered or nervous, emphasizing the lack of self-assurance in their behavior.
A Nice Nelly is often cautious in expressing their opinions, at times suppressing their true feelings in order to avoid confrontation or displeasing others. They tend to adhere strictly to social etiquette, maintaining a blameless image even if it requires hiding their true emotions or opinions. Nice Nellies may avoid engaging in risqué conversations or potentially controversial topics, preferring to remain on the safe side by maintaining a conservative stance.
While the term "Nice Nelly" can be used as a gentle, somewhat humorous way to describe someone who is excessively polite or prudish, it can also carry a negative connotation. It may imply an element of insincerity or lack of spontaneity in one's behavior, as well as an inclination to conform to societal expectations to an extreme extent.
The term "nice Nelly" is derived from a longer phrase, "nice as Nellie in the Brier Patch". It originated in the Southern United States and is believed to have African American origins. The expression references the character "Nellie" from the classic Uncle Remus stories by Joel Chandler Harris. In these stories, Nellie is portrayed as a polite and well-behaved character who always does what is considered right or nice. Over time, the phrase "nice Nelly" became popularized as a way to describe someone who is overly concerned with being proper or overly cautious in their behavior.
