Nerp is slang for the disassembling of a
perfectly good working item, for the purpose of discovering how it works or functions. To NERP something is to basically destroy it, rendering it utterly useless to perform its
originally intended function or purpose. Also referred to as “reverse-engineering” an item, machine, or
intricately constructed puzzle or project.
What’s that you got there, Jim?
Oh, it’s just an old copy machine I found in back of one of the downtown office buildings. I
figured I’d take it home and NERP it for some of the
really cool parts inside!