chip
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for chip, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A small piece broken off a larger object, or the mark left where it broke off.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use chip
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old English ċipp, meaning a small piece of wood or shaving, related to a Germanic root for cutting or chopping.
Full origin of chip →Frequently asked questions
What does “chip” mean?
The word “chip” means a small piece broken off a larger object, or the mark left where it broke off. In plain terms, a small broken-off piece, a tiny computer circuit, a fried potato slice, or (as a verb) to break off a small piece or to pitch in.
How do you pronounce “chip”?
“Chip” is pronounced chihp (/t͡ʃɪp/ in IPA).
How do you use “chip” in a sentence?
Here is “chip” used in a sentence: “There's a chip in the rim of this mug.”
What part of speech is “chip”?
Depending on how it is used, “chip” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “chip” come from?
The word “chip” comes from Old English. From Old English ċipp, meaning a small piece of wood or shaving, related to a Germanic root for cutting or chopping.
Is “chip” a common word?
“Chip” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “chip” have?
“Chip” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a small piece broken off a larger object, or the mark left where it broke off.
What is the difference between a 'chip' and a 'crisp'?
In British English, a thin fried slice of potato is called a 'crisp,' while a 'chip' is a thick fried baton of potato (called a 'fry' in American English). In American English, that same thin fried slice is called a 'chip,' which is a frequent source of confusion between the two dialects.
What is the difference between a 'chip' and a 'microchip'?
Both a 'chip' and a 'microchip' refer to a tiny electronic circuit built onto a small piece of material such as silicon. 'Chip' is the everyday shortened term, while 'microchip' emphasises how extremely small the circuit is.