Chop

Definition

Chop refers to the action of cutting something into pieces with repeated, sharp blows, typically using a tool such as an axe or knife. It can also refer to a specific piece of meat, usually a rib cut, or to the act of reducing or diminishing something.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tʃɑːp/
• Respelling: chahp

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tʃɒp/
• Respelling: chop

The pronunciation of "chop" varies slightly between American and British English, mainly in the vowel sound.

Etymology

The word "chop" originates from the Old English word "ceopan," which means "to buy." However, its modern sense of "cutting with a tool" developed in the 16th century, likely influenced by the Old French word "choper," meaning "to cut or strike."

Derivatives

• Chopper (noun)
• Chopping (verb/noun)
• Chopped (adjective)
• Choppy (adjective, typically used for rough water)
• Chop-chop (adverb, informal, meaning quickly)

Synonyms

• Cut
• Slice
• Hack

Antonyms

• Combine
• Assemble
• Unify

Usage

The word "chop" is commonly used to describe the act of cutting something into smaller pieces, such as in cooking, "Chop the vegetables into small cubes," or to describe a reduction, as in "The company had to chop several jobs due to budget cuts." In another context, it can refer to a specific cut of meat, such as "pork chop."

Related Terms

• Cleave: To split or sever something, often with force.
• Dice: To cut food into small, cube-shaped pieces.
• Mince: To cut or grind food into very small pieces.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To cut something into pieces with repeated sharp blows: Refers to the action of slicing or dividing something using a tool like a knife or axe.
  • Example: "He used an axe to chop the wood."

Noun

• A thick slice of meat, typically including a rib: Refers to a specific cut of meat, often from pork, lamb, or beef.
  • Example: "She ordered a lamb chop for dinner."
• The action or process of chopping something: Refers to the act of cutting or striking something repeatedly.
  • Example: "The recipe calls for a rough chop of the onions."