chap

/tʃæp/

Friendly

The word "chap" can have several meanings and uses in English. Let's break it down in an easy-to-understand way.

Basic Definition:

1. Noun: A "chap" is an informal term for a boy or man. It is often used in British English. For example, if you say, "He's a nice chap," it means he is a nice guy.

2. Noun (specific to leather): "Chaps" (usually in the plural form) are leather leggings worn by cowboys. They cover the legs and are often used to protect them while riding horses. They have a belt and may have flared outer flaps.

3. Other Meanings:

   • A crack in a lip caused by cold weather is also called "chapping." For instance, you might say, "My lips get chapped in winter."
   • A long narrow depression in a surface can be referred to as a "chap," although this usage is less common.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "chap" when talking about a man or boy in a friendly or informal way.
• When discussing cowboy gear, refer to "chaps" in the plural form.
• For lips that are cracked and dry, use the verb "to chap."

Examples:

• As a noun: "That chap over there is my friend."
• As chaps: "The cowboy wore leather chaps to protect his legs."
• As a verb: "My lips chap easily when it’s cold outside."

Advanced Usage:

• In British English, "chap" can also imply a sense of camaraderie or friendliness, often used among friends or acquaintances.

Word Variants:

• Chapped (adjective): Used to describe something that is cracked or sore, like chapped lips.
• Chapping (verb): The action of becoming chapped.

Synonyms:

• For "chap" (as a boy or man): guy, fellow, lad, bloke (especially in British English).
• For "chaps" (the leather leggings): leather pants, protective wear.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly include "chap," but you might hear phrases like "good chap" or "that chap's got character," which express positive traits about a person.

Summary:

In conclusion, "chap" is a versatile word in English with meanings that vary based on context.

Academic

Noun

1. (usually in the plural) leather leggings without a seat; joined by a belt; often have flared outer flaps; worn over trousers by cowboys to protect their legs
2. a crack in a lip caused usually by cold
3. a long narrow depression in a surface
4. a boy or man
   • that chap is your host
   • there's a fellow at the door
   • he's a likable cuss
   • he's a good bloke

Verb

1. crack due to dehydration
   • My lips chap in this dry weather

Synonyms

• crevice
• cranny
• crack
• fissure
• fellow
• feller
• fella
• lad
• gent
• blighter
• cuss
• bloke