chicks

word · lemma: chick

/ˈtʃɪks/
chiks
/tʃˈɪks/
chiks

Definition

Young birds, especially baby chickens, are called chicks. In informal English, the word can also be used for young women, but that use can sound old-fashioned, casual, or disrespectful depending on context.

Usage & Nuances

The main and safest meaning is the animal one: baby birds, especially chickens. For people, 'chicks' is informal slang for women and is often avoided in careful or respectful speech. Common phrases include 'baby chicks' and 'the chicks hatched.'

Example Sentences

The chicks are sleeping under the lamp.

basic

We saw five yellow chicks on the farm.

basic

The hen keeps her chicks close.

basic

The kids were more excited about the chicks than the rabbits.

natural

A few chicks hatched this morning, and they're already running around.

natural

He still says 'cool chicks,' which sounds pretty outdated now.

natural