# chipping

/ˈtʃɪpɪŋ/ (US) · /tʃˈɪpɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/chipping
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

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

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The gardener spread wood chippings over the flower beds.
- The sculptor carefully swept away the marble chippings that had accumulated around the base of the statue.
- Granite chippings are frequently employed in road surfacing to provide a durable, high-friction layer that improves vehicle safety during inclement weather conditions.

## Usage notes

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

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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.