chick
B1Informal to neutral; the 'young woman' meaning is very informal/slang and can be considered offensive.
Definition
Meaning
A young bird, especially a young chicken.
A casual and sometimes derogatory term for a young woman; also refers to a newly hatched bird or, in very informal slang, a friend (often in 'my chick'). In biology/zoology, it specifically denotes a young gallinaceous bird.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The primary meaning (young bird) is standard and neutral. The secondary slang meaning (young woman) is dated, potentially sexist, and its appropriateness depends heavily on context and relationship between speakers.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both meanings are understood in both varieties. The slang term for a young woman is perhaps slightly more dated in contemporary UK usage but remains recognisable.
Connotations
In both regions, using 'chick' to refer to a woman is informal and can be perceived as disrespectful or objectifying, though it may be used jocularly among some groups.
Frequency
The ornithological/agricultural meaning is common where relevant. The slang meaning is less frequent in polite or formal contexts.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
The hen protected her [chick].They watched a [chick] hatch.(Slang) He was at the club with his [chick].Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Don't count your chickens before they hatch. (Related)”
- “Like a mother hen (with her chicks).”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare, except in poultry farming contexts (e.g., 'chick starter feed').
Academic
Used in biology, zoology, and agriculture papers to specify a developmental stage.
Everyday
Common when discussing baby birds, poultry, or pets. Slang use is informal social language.
Technical
Precise term in ornithology and poultry science for a newly hatched precocial bird.
Examples
By Part of Speech
noun
British English
- The farmer checked on the chicks in the brooder.
- It's just a lads' night out, no chicks allowed.
- That chick flick was actually quite entertaining.
American English
- We saw a robin feeding its chick in the nest.
- He walked into the party with a couple of chicks.
- She's a cool chick, really into vintage cars.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- Look at the small yellow chick!
- The chick follows its mother.
- We bought six chicks to raise for eggs.
- In the film, the main character is a young chick living in the city.
- The survival rate of the chicks depends on early feeding.
- The slang term 'chick' for a woman is considered outdated by many.
- The study monitored the imprinting behaviour of greylag goose chicks.
- The novelist's use of 'chick' to describe his female characters reveals a subtly patronising narrative perspective.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the sound 'chick-chick' often used to call chickens. A chick goes 'cheep'.
Conceptual Metaphor
YOUTH/INEXPERIENCE IS BEING A CHICK (e.g., 'He's no spring chicken.'). VULNERABILITY IS BEING A CHICK (e.g., 'She took him under her wing.').
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'чик' (slang for 'guy' or 'dude'). The Russian 'цыплёнок' covers the bird meaning but not the slang for a woman. The slang meaning translates closer to 'телка' or 'цыпочка', but these also carry strong connotations.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'chick' to refer to a woman in formal or professional contexts.
- Misspelling as 'chic' (which means stylish).
- Using it as a general term for any baby animal.
Practice
Quiz
In which context would the word 'chick' be LEAST appropriate?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, no. It is informal slang that many consider dated, derogatory, or objectifying. It is best avoided, especially in professional or unfamiliar social contexts.
A 'chick' is specifically a very young, recently hatched bird. A 'chicken' is the general term for the species and can refer to an adult.
It's an informal, sometimes dismissive term for a film genre perceived to appeal primarily to a female audience, often focusing on romance, relationships, and emotional drama.
Yes, it can be used informally for many types of young birds (e.g., 'a robin chick'). Technically, 'nestling' or 'fledgling' are more precise for songbirds, but 'chick' is widely understood.