chalk

B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun Science

n. a type of soft, white, powdery rock.

n. a soft, white, powdery limestone consisting mainly of fossil shells of foraminiferans.

“The white cliffs are made of chalk that was formed millions of years ago.”

“Geologists examined the chalk deposits to determine the environmental conditions of the Cretaceous period.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun Sports

n. a powder used by climbers or gymnasts to stop their hands from slipping.

n. a powdery substance, typically magnesium carbonate, applied to the hands to improve grip by absorbing moisture.

“The weightlifter rubbed chalk on his hands before trying to lift the heavy bar.”

“Before attempting the difficult overhang, the climber dipped her hands into her chalk bag to ensure a secure hold on the limestone.”

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Sports American English · Informal

n. the person or team that is expected to win a game.

n. the consensus favorite in a sporting event or tournament, particularly in the context of betting or bracket predictions.

“I usually pick the chalk in the first round of the tournament.”

“While many fans hoped for an upset, the results followed the chalk, with every top-seeded team advancing to the semi-finals.”

B1 · Intermediate

v. to draw or write something using chalk.

v. to mark, draw, or write on a surface using chalk; often used for marking boundaries or recording scores.

“The groundskeeper began to chalk the lines on the football pitch before the game.”

“The referee proceeded to chalk the position of the free kick to ensure the defensive wall remained at the regulation distance.”