Word
chic
Phoneticschic
US/ˈʃik/
UK/ʃˈiːk/
Definitions
01stylish and elegant
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. very fashionable and elegant in a way that looks natural.
adj. characterised by effortless elegance and sophistication in style or manner.
“She looked very chic in her simple black dress and pearl necklace.”
“The boutique hotel was decorated in a chic, minimalist style that appealed to high-end travellers seeking understated luxury.”
Synonyms
02the quality of being stylish
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Fashion Formal
n. the quality of being stylish and elegant.
n. the quality of being stylish, elegant, or sophisticated; often used with a modifier to describe a specific aesthetic.
“The apartment was the height of Parisian chic with its tall windows and white walls.”
“The designer's latest collection successfully blended industrial chic with traditional tailoring, creating a unique aesthetic for the autumn season.”
Real-World Examples
“But it’s always papier mache – a technique that’s very simple, very practical, but not chic.”
It takes a certain something to compare yourself to these two French giantesses of art.” Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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