Chunk

Definition

Chunk refers to a large, solid piece of something, typically broken off from a larger mass. It can also be used informally to refer to a significant portion of time or money.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tʃʌŋk/
• Respelling: chungk

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tʃʌŋk/
• Respelling: chungk

Etymology

The word "chunk" originates from the mid-17th century, possibly from the Old North French word "chuquer," meaning "to cut off or break into pieces." Its usage evolved to describe large or substantial pieces of material or mass.

Derivatives

• Chunky (adjective)
• Chunking (noun)
• Chunked (verb, past tense)
• Rechunk (verb)
• Chunkiness (noun)

Synonyms

• Piece
• Lump
• Fragment

Antonyms

• Whole
• Sliver
• None

Usage

The noun "chunk" is frequently used to describe large, solid portions of materials such as wood, metal, or food. For example, "He bit into a chunk of bread." It can also be used informally to describe significant amounts of time or money, as in "That project took a big chunk of my savings."

Related Terms

• Portion: A part of something larger.
• Segment: A part or division of a whole.
• Block: A solid piece of material, typically larger and rectangular.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A large piece of something broken off: Refers to a substantial portion or mass of a material.
  • Example: "The worker removed a chunk of stone from the wall."
• A significant amount of time or money: Informally refers to a large, notable portion.
  • Example: "A big chunk of his day was spent in meetings."

Verb

• To cut or break into large pieces: Refers to the act of dividing something into chunks.
  • Example: "She chunked the vegetables before cooking."