# chipped

/ˈtʃɪpt/ (US) · /tʃˈɪpt/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/chipped
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

having a small piece broken off the edge or surface. You use this to describe things like plates, cups, or stones that are slightly damaged.

For teachers: having a small fragment broken off from the edge or surface of a hard object. Often used predicatively after 'be' or 'look', or attributively before a noun.

## Examples

- I threw away the chipped mug because it was sharp.
- The antique mirror was still beautiful despite its chipped frame and faded glass.
- Archaeologists found several chipped flint tools near the riverbed, suggesting that early humans had used the site for crafting weapons and domestic implements.

## Usage notes

- Typically describes hard materials like ceramic, glass, stone, or wood.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.