Chip Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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chip
chip
Definitions
computing
A small piece of semiconducting material on which a circuit is etched. Chips are used in computers to perform various functions.
Synonyms
CPU, integrated circuit, microchip.
Examples of usage
- The latest smartphones use powerful chips to provide fast processing speeds.
- The chip in my laptop is overheating, causing it to slow down.
food
A thin piece of potato that has been fried until crisp, typically eaten as a snack.
Synonyms
French fries, crisps.
Examples of usage
- I ordered some fish and chips for lunch.
- Would you like some ketchup with your chips?
informal
To break off a small piece from something.
Synonyms
break off, chip off, knock off.
Examples of usage
- He chipped a corner off the plate by accident.
- She chipped a tooth while biting into the hard candy.
Translations
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Quick facts about “chip”
Chip is a 1-syllable noun and verb. It is pronounced /ˈtʃɪp/ in American English and /tʃˈɪp/ in British English. On finesentence.com it has 3 meanings, 8 synonyms, and translations into 21 languages. It ranks #7,322 among the most common English words.
Did you know?
“chip” in technology
- Microchips revolutionized technology, enabling the development of computers and smartphones because they process data efficiently.
- In the 1970s, the introduction of the microchip made it possible for devices to become smaller and more powerful.
“chip” in food
- Potato chips were invented in 1853 by Chef George Crum, who wanted to satisfy a customer’s request for thinner fried potatoes.
- In the United States, chips are commonly eaten as a snack, while in other countries, they may refer to something completely different—like fries!
“chip” in pop culture
- In popular culture, 'chip' can refer to a cute character or sidekick, like R2-D2 from Star Wars, often depicted as a small 'chip' of technology.
- The phrase 'chip on your shoulder' describes someone who feels angry or resentful, stemming from the practice of putting a physical chip on one’s shoulder to provoke a fight.
“chip” in psychology
- The psychological concept of a 'chip' relates to how we perceive ourselves in groups, often leading to feelings of inferiority or the need to prove ourselves.
- Studies show that having a 'chip on your shoulder' can impact interpersonal relationships, leading to miscommunications or conflicts.
Origin of 'chip'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old English 'cippa', meaning 'a small piece or fragment'.
- It has been used since the 14th century to describe bits broken off from larger materials.
The word 'chip' has a rich history with multiple meanings and origins. In computing, it originated from the idea of a small piece of semiconductor material that performs electronic functions. The food meaning of 'chip' can be traced back to the 18th century, where it referred to a thin slice of food. The verb 'chip' has roots in Old English, where it meant to cut or break off a small piece. Over time, 'chip' has evolved to encompass a variety of meanings and contexts.