chip

word

/ˈtʃɪp/
chip
/tʃˈɪp/
chip

Definition

A chip can be a small thin piece broken off something, a thin slice of fried potato, or a very small electronic part used in devices. The meaning depends a lot on the context.

Usage & Nuances

Very context-dependent. In American English, 'chips' usually means the snack in a bag; in British English, 'chips' usually means thick fried potato pieces like fries. Common patterns: 'a chip in the paint', 'potato chips', 'computer chip'. Also note the idiom 'a chip on your shoulder'.

Example Sentences

There is a small chip in the cup.

basic

This phone has a faster chip.

basic

I dropped the plate, and now it has a chip on the edge.

natural

Can you grab some chips while you're at the store?

natural

He ate a bag of potato chips.

basic

The new laptop uses a chip that saves battery life.

natural