English Reference
Noun

chipping

n. C / U
C1 Advanced US /ˈtʃɪpɪŋ/ UK /tʃˈɪpɪŋ/ chip·ping UK spelling chippings

n.a small piece of stone, wood, or metal that has been broken off a larger object.

n.a small fragment or shard removed from a larger mass by a sharp blow or through wear. Often used in the plural to describe materials used in construction or landscaping.


SIMPLE

The gardener spread wood chippings over the flower beds.

CONTEXTUAL

The sculptor carefully swept away the marble chippings that had accumulated around the base of the statue.

COMPLEX

Granite chippings are frequently employed in road surfacing to provide a durable, high-friction layer that improves vehicle safety during inclement weather conditions.

Usage

Commonly used in the plural ('chippings') when referring to bulk material like gravel or wood mulch.

Colorado has been chipping away at this problem.

The Conversation· 14 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated