chimp: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Informal, colloquial. Common in spoken language, media, and informal writing. Not typically used in formal scientific or academic papers, where 'chimpanzee' is preferred.
Quick answer
What does “chimp” mean?
A common informal term for a chimpanzee, a great ape native to Africa, known for its high intelligence and close genetic relationship to humans.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A common informal term for a chimpanzee, a great ape native to Africa, known for its high intelligence and close genetic relationship to humans.
Informally used to refer to chimpanzees in contexts ranging from wildlife to scientific research, often with connotations of intelligence, mischief, or a perceived similarity to human behavior. Can be used affectionately or derogatorily in colloquial contexts.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is largely identical. Both use the clipped form 'chimp' informally. 'Chimp' may be slightly more prevalent in British tabloid headlines.
Connotations
Equally informal in both variants. Can imply cheekiness, curiosity, or primitive behavior when applied metaphorically to humans.
Frequency
Equally common in both dialects for informal reference.
Grammar
How to Use “chimp” in a Sentence
observe the chimpstudy the chimpfeed the chimpthe chimp uses (a tool)the chimp resembles (a human)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “chimp” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- The cheeky chimp stole the visitor's hat.
- Conservation efforts for the chimp are increasing.
- That film about the talking chimp is hilarious.
American English
- The chimp used a stick to get termites.
- Researchers observed the chimp's social interactions.
- He acts like a chimp when he gets excited.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in branding or marketing for zoos, wildlife charities, or children's products.
Academic
Rare in formal writing. 'Chimpanzee' is the standard term in zoology, anthropology, and psychology.
Everyday
Very common for casual reference to the animal. "We saw the chimps at the zoo."
Technical
Used informally by primatologists and zookeepers in speech, but 'chimpanzee' or 'Pan troglodytes' in official documents.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “chimp”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “chimp”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “chimp”
- Using 'chimp' in formal scientific writing.
- Confusing 'chimp' (chimpanzee) with 'gorilla' or 'orangutan'.
- Spelling as 'chymp'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not when referring to the animal itself. However, using it as a slang term for a person ('chimp out') is considered offensive and derogatory.
Chimps are apes (no tails, larger brains, more complex social structures), while monkeys generally have tails and are a different branch of primates. It's a common scientific mistake to confuse them.
It is strongly discouraged. The standard formal term is 'chimpanzee' or the scientific name 'Pan troglodytes'.
The usage is virtually identical. Both use it as the standard informal clipped form of 'chimpanzee'.
A common informal term for a chimpanzee, a great ape native to Africa, known for its high intelligence and close genetic relationship to humans.
Chimp is usually informal, colloquial. common in spoken language, media, and informal writing. not typically used in formal scientific or academic papers, where 'chimpanzee' is preferred. in register.
Chimp: in British English it is pronounced /tʃɪmp/, and in American English it is pronounced /tʃɪmp/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “chimp out (US slang, vulgar: to lose emotional control)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'CHIMP' as 'Cheeky Helper In Man's Past' – highlighting their intelligence and evolutionary link.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE CHIMP IS A MISCHIEVOUS/INTELLIGENT RELATIVE. Used to conceptualize playful, clever, or primitive human behavior.
Practice
Quiz
In which context would 'chimp' be LEAST appropriate?