English Reference
Idiom idiom

Chalk Farm

Slang Cockney rhyming slang · East London

arm


SIMPLE

He hurt his chalk farm while playing football.

CONTEXTUAL

I fell down the stairs and now I have a terrible pain in my chalk farm.

COMPLEX

The athlete clutched his chalk farm in agony after the collision, signaling to the trainer that he could no longer continue the match.


first recorded 13th c.

The name originates from the Middle English Chaldecote, a term first recorded in 1253. By the 16th century, the designation had shifted to Chalcotts, and by 1746 it appeared as Chalk. The specific formulation Chalk Farm is attested from the 19th century, drawing its lineage from the same roots as Caldecote.


Related idioms7entries
  1. 01

    an arm and a leg

    Usually used after the verb cost, but also often charge, pay, and spend: a very high price for an item or service; an exorbitant price

  2. 02

    arm candy

    An attractive, seemingly romantic companion who accompanies a person in public solely so that one or both of the individuals can gain attention, enhance social status, or create an impression of sexual appeal.

  3. 03

    arm to the teeth

    To equip thoroughly with weapons.

  4. 04

    arm up

    to supply, or be supplied with, arms (weapons)

  5. 05

    long arm

    Influence; far-reaching power.

  6. 06

    long arm of the law

    The influence or effectiveness of law enforcement institutions; law enforcement officers collectively.

  7. 07

    take someone's arm

    To take hold of someone by their arm; to link arms with someone.

Last updated April 28, 2026