chink
Chink (noun) means a narrow crack or opening, often letting through a beam of light. Example: “A chink in the curtains let a thin ray of sunlight in.”
How to use chink
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA small crack or gap, or figuratively a weak spot in something.
As a slur for people of Chinese or East Asian descent, this word is highly offensive and should never be used that way.
Word forms
more Chink comparative, chinked past tense, chinked past tense, chinks plural, chinks plural, Chinks plural, chinks singular, chinks singular, most Chink superlative
Etymology
From Old English ċine ("crack"), with the diminutive suffix -k added later.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for chink
See all rhymes for chink →Frequently asked questions
What does “chink” mean?
The word “chink” means a narrow crack or opening, often letting through a beam of light. In plain terms, a small crack or gap, or figuratively a weak spot in something.
How do you pronounce “chink”?
“Chink” is pronounced chihngk (/t͡ʃɪŋk/ in IPA).
How do you use “chink” in a sentence?
Here is “chink” used in a sentence: “A chink in the curtains let a thin ray of sunlight in.”
What is another word for “chink”?
Words with a similar meaning to “chink” include Chinaman and ching chong.
What part of speech is “chink”?
“Chink” is a noun.
Where does the word “chink” come from?
The word “chink” comes from Old English. From Old English ċine ("crack"), with the diminutive suffix -k added later.
How many meanings does “chink” have?
“Chink” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a narrow crack or opening, often letting through a beam of light.