Definition

Describing something that has small pieces broken off or missing.

Example

The vase was chipped after it fell off the shelf.

Conversation

Have you seen my coffee mug? It's chipped at the rim.

Oh no, I didn't realize that! How did it happen?

I think I accidentally dropped it on the floor last week.

That's a bummer! Maybe you should get a new one.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To have broken off a small piece from something, usually a hard surface.

Example

He accidentally chipped the edge of the table while moving it.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I accidentally chipped my favorite mug this morning.

Oh no! Was it a bad break?

Yeah, it has a noticeable crack now.

Root Explanation

Chipped → It is formed from "chip" (from Old English "cippian", meaning to break off or cut) and the suffix "-ed" (indicating a past action). The word "chipped" means having been broken off or cut into small pieces.

Memory Tip

Think of something that has been 'broken off' ('chip') in the past, which is what 'chipped' describes.

Visually Confused Words