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Chap Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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chap

[tʃap ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

headwear

A soft hat worn by university students, especially in the UK, often with a tassel on top.

Synonyms

beanie, bonnet, cap.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
chap

This word is commonly used in British English to casually refer to a man or boy. It has a friendly, informal tone.

  • He's a good chap, always ready to help.
  • That chap over there is my brother.
cap

This word refers to a type of hat with a flat, rounded top, often with a visor. It is versatile and can be used in casual, sporty, or work-related contexts.

  • He wore a baseball cap to the game.
  • The security guard adjusted his cap and continued his rounds.
bonnet

In American English, this word is archaic and usually refers to a type of hat worn by women and children in the past. In British English, it can mean the hood of a car, but this usage is specific to that region.

  • She wore a beautiful old-fashioned bonnet to the reenactment.
  • He lifted the car's bonnet to check the engine.
beanie

This term refers to a small, close-fitting hat, usually made of knitted material, worn in cold weather. It is informal and often associated with casual wear.

  • I always wear a beanie when I go skiing.
  • He pulled his beanie down over his ears.

Examples of usage

  • It's a tradition for the graduating students to wear a chap during the ceremony.
  • She proudly sported her university's chap at the football game.
Context #2 | Noun

Western culture

A man or boy. Often used in a friendly or familiar way.

Synonyms

fellow, guy, lad.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
chap

When the skin is dry or rough, often due to cold weather.

  • My lips always chap during the winter.
  • The cold wind made my cheeks chap.
fellow

Neutral formal term, often used in official or academic settings.

  • He's a fellow of the Royal Society.
  • The fellows at the university are working on a new research project.
guy

Very common and informal term, predominantly used in American English to refer to a man.

  • He's a nice guy, easy to get along with.
  • I saw a guy jogging in the park.
lad

Informal British English, usually refers to a young boy or young man and sometimes carries a playful or affectionate tone.

  • The young lad was playing football in the yard.
  • He's just a lad with many dreams ahead of him.

Examples of usage

  • He's a good chap, always willing to lend a hand.
  • The little chaps were excited to go to the park.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • 'Chap' is often used in British television and film to depict a friendly, popular character, reflecting camaraderie.
  • The phrase 'old chap' is a common informal greeting in British culture, associated with friendship and warmth.

Geographical Variations

  • In the UK, 'chap' is frequently used, while in American English, 'guy' or 'dude' might be more prevalent.
  • In Australian slang, 'chap' can also refer to a mate or buddy, similar to its British roots.

Usage in Literature

  • Authors like Charles Dickens and J.K. Rowling have used the term to characterize youthful or amicable male figures.
  • The term pops up in classic literature, often reflecting the societal roles of males in various time periods.

Psychology

  • Using lighthearted language like 'chap' can foster a sense of friendliness and openness in conversations.
  • The social acceptance of terms like 'chap' can influence group dynamics, making interactions feel more relaxed.

Origin of 'chap'

Main points about word origin

  • Originated from the Old English 'ceap', meaning 'to buy' or 'to barter', which evolved into its modern usage.
  • In the 19th century, 'chap' referred to a young boy or a fellow, particularly in British English.

The word 'chap' originated from Middle English 'chappe', meaning a piece cut off. Over time, the meaning evolved to refer to various items like pieces of clothing or armor. In the 19th century, 'chap' started being used to refer to a man or boy in a friendly manner, particularly in Western culture. The association of 'chap' with university headwear also gained popularity during this time, especially in the UK.

See also: chapati, chapel, chapter.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,227 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.