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chrome

n. · v.
US //ˈkɹoʊm// UK //kɹˈəʊm// chrome
  1. 1 metal coating (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a hard, shiny metal layer used to protect and decorate other metals.

    chromium used as a decorative or protective plating for other metal objects.

    Example

    The classic car had beautiful chrome bumpers that sparkled in the sun.

    Example

    The restoration project involved stripping the rusted layers and reapplying a high-quality chrome finish to the original steel fixtures.
  2. 2 software interface (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Computing

    the parts of a computer window that are not the content, like the borders and buttons.

    the visual design elements of a graphical user interface, such as window frames and scroll bars, that surround the primary content.

    Example

    The new browser design uses very little chrome to give more space to the website.

    Example

    Modern web design trends favour a 'content-first' approach, often reducing the browser chrome to a minimal set of essential controls.
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  1. 3 handguns (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Slang American English

    a slang word for a gun.

    a metonymic slang term for a handgun, typically referring to a pistol with a shiny or metallic finish.

    Example

    The lyrics of the song mentioned someone carrying chrome in their belt.

    Example

    The gritty urban drama used 'chrome' as a recurring slang term to underscore the constant threat of violence in the neighbourhood.
  2. 4 to plate with metal (v.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Technical

    to cover a metal object with a layer of chrome.

    to apply a layer of chromium to a surface through electroplating.

    Example

    The factory decided to chrome the handles to make them last longer.

    Example

    The manufacturer chromes the exhaust pipes not only for aesthetic appeal but also to provide a significant barrier against heat-induced corrosion.
  3. 5 to inhale fumes (v.)
    C2 Proficiency Slang Dialect

    to breathe in the fumes of paint or chemicals to get high.

    to engage in the inhalation of volatile substances, such as aerosol paint, for intoxicating effects.

    Example

    The police were worried about teenagers chroming in the park behind the shops.

    Example

    Local outreach programmes were established to address the rising incidence of chroming among vulnerable youth populations in the industrial suburbs.

    Usage

    Often used in Australian or New Zealand English.

    Teacher's tip

    This is a highly informal and culturally specific term for substance abuse; learners should be aware of its negative connotations.
    • huffing
Origin

Borrowed from French chrome.

Idioms2 entries

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