Chicken: meaning, definitions and examples

A general term for the domesticated bird raised for meat or eggs; can refer to both males and females.

• We are having chicken for dinner.
• She raises chickens in her backyard.

Refers to an adult female chicken, especially when she lays eggs.

• The hen laid three eggs this morning.
• We have several hens in our coop.

Refers to an adult male chicken, especially noted for crowing and being more aggressive.

• The rooster wakes us up every morning with his crowing.
• A rooster typically guards his flock of hens.

A broad term for domestic birds raised for meat or eggs, including chickens, turkeys, ducks, etc.

• Poultry farming is a major industry in this region.
• You can find a variety of poultry products at the grocery store.

Used informally to describe someone who is afraid to do something. Typically, it's a playful or teasing term rather than a deeply offensive insult.

• Don't be such a chicken; the roller coaster isn't that scary!
• He called his friend a chicken for not joining the dance-off.

A strong and direct term with negative connotations used to describe someone who is consistently afraid, especially in situations requiring bravery. This term can be seen as harsh or judgmental.

• He felt like a coward for not standing up to the bully.
• In stories, cowards are often portrayed as the antagonist's sidekick.

A casual and often mildly insulting term used to describe someone who is perceived as weak or lacking in bravery. It can refer to both physical and emotional weakness.

• She was called a wimp for not trying the spicy food.
• He knew he was being a wimp by not asking for help.

An older and less common term, often used in literature or formal contexts to describe someone who lacks courage. It has a slightly more formal and serious tone compared to 'chicken'.

• The knight was too chickenhearted to face the dragon.
• She showed her chickenhearted nature by avoiding the confrontation.

This word is used both in referring to the domesticated bird often raised for its meat and eggs, and colloquially to describe someone who is scared or cowardly.

• We had chicken for dinner last night.
• Don't be such a chicken, try the roller coaster!

The term is usually used in the context of farming and cooking, referring to domesticated birds raised for their meat and eggs.

• Poultry farming is a major industry in many countries.
• We need to buy some poultry for the barbecue.

This is a general term for any creature with feathers and wings, covering all species from sparrows to eagles.

• A beautiful bird is perched on the branch.
• Bird watching has become a popular hobby.

This term is generally used in a more formal or older context, often referring to domesticated birds like chickens, ducks, and turkeys.

• The farm has various types of fowl.
• The fowl were kept in the barn overnight.

Also used informally in some regions or subcultures to refer to a young, inexperienced male often in a pejorative way.

• He's just a chicken, new to these kind of challenges.

This is a more formal or clinical way to describe a male who is both young and identifies as homosexual. It is used in academic, medical, or official contexts.

• The study included a section on the mental health of young homosexual men.

This term is used to refer to a young person who identifies as homosexual. It is often used in discussions about LGBTQ+ rights, youth support programs, and social issues.

• There are many resources available to support gay youth.

Commonly used in a colloquial or informal setting to describe someone who is scared or afraid to take action. It often has a somewhat humorous or teasing connotation.

• He's too chicken to ask her out on a date.
• Don't be such a chicken; it's just a roller-coaster.

Used when someone decides to withdraw from a commitment or plan they previously agreed to. This phrase is more neutral and can be used in both formal and informal settings.

• She backed out of the agreement at the last minute.
• Don't back out now; we've already started the project.

Used to describe someone avoiding a situation because of fear, discomfort, or lack of confidence. This phrase is neutral and can be used in various contexts.

• He tends to shy away from public speaking.
• They shy away from making difficult decisions.

Appropriate for formal situations where someone is tactically withdrawing from a position or situation, often to avoid danger or unfavorable conditions. It can also be used metaphorically for giving up on an idea or plan.

• The army had to retreat due to heavy losses.
• After facing strong opposition, he decided to retreat from the debate.