chop

The word “chop” means a cut of meat, often including part of a rib bone. In plain terms, cutting something with quick strokes, or (informally) being fired.

“Chop” is pronounced chop (/t͡ʃɑp/ in IPA).

Here is “chop” used in a sentence: “We grilled pork chops for dinner.”

Depending on how it is used, “chop” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “chop” comes from Middle English. From Middle English choppen, of uncertain origin — possibly imitative of the sound, or a variant of chap ("to crack").

“Chop” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

“Chop” has 5 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a cut of meat, often including part of a rib bone.

A chop is a cut of meat that often includes part of a rib bone, typically from pork, lamb, or veal. A cutlet is usually a thinner, boneless slice of meat, though the terms are sometimes used loosely and can overlap depending on the butcher or region.

Informally, "the chop" means dismissal from a job, as in "she got the chop after the merger." It is a British informal expression used for redundancy or being cut from a role, team, or list.

When describing water, chop refers to rough, choppy waves usually caused by wind, as distinct from smooth or calm water. Sailors and boaters commonly use the term to describe conditions that make travel bumpier or more difficult.

As a verb, to chop means to cut something into pieces with quick, forceful strokes, such as chopping vegetables. As a noun, a chop can refer to the cut of meat, a sharp striking blow, or rough water, depending on context.