chrome
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a hard, shiny metal layer used to protect and decorate other metals.
n.chromium used as a decorative or protective plating for other metal objects.
Simple“The classic car had beautiful chrome bumpers that sparkled in the sun.”
In context“The restoration project involved stripping the rusted layers and reapplying a high-quality chrome finish to the original steel fixtures.”
- 02 C1 Advanced
n.the parts of a computer window that are not the content, like the borders and buttons.
n.the visual design elements of a graphical user interface, such as window frames and scroll bars, that surround the primary content.
Simple“The new browser design uses very little chrome to give more space to the website.”
In context“Modern web design trends favour a 'content-first' approach, often reducing the browser chrome to a minimal set of essential controls.”
- 03 C2 Proficiency
n.a slang word for a gun.
n.a metonymic slang term for a handgun, typically referring to a pistol with a shiny or metallic finish.
Simple“The lyrics of the song mentioned someone carrying chrome in their belt.”
In context“The gritty urban drama used 'chrome' as a recurring slang term to underscore the constant threat of violence in the neighbourhood.”
- 04 C1 Advanced
v.to cover a metal object with a layer of chrome.
v.to apply a layer of chromium to a surface through electroplating.
Simple“The factory decided to chrome the handles to make them last longer.”
In context“The manufacturer chromes the exhaust pipes not only for aesthetic appeal but also to provide a significant barrier against heat-induced corrosion.”
- 05 C2 Proficiency
v.to breathe in the fumes of paint or chemicals to get high.
v.to engage in the inhalation of volatile substances, such as aerosol paint, for intoxicating effects.
Simple“The police were worried about teenagers chroming in the park behind the shops.”
In context“Local outreach programmes were established to address the rising incidence of chroming among vulnerable youth populations in the industrial suburbs.”
UsageOften used in Australian or New Zealand English.
Teacher's tipThis is a highly informal and culturally specific term for substance abuse; learners should be aware of its negative connotations.
Synonymshuffing
Borrowed from French chrome.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.