Chap: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.