chap etymology

Etymology:

  • From Middle English: chap, chape
  • From Middle Dutch: kap, chappe
  • Ultimately from Proto-Germanic: *kappō

Meaning:

  • A person, especially a man or boy
  • A fellow; a bloke
  • A mate; a buddy
  • A jaw; a cheek

Origin:

The word "chap" originally referred to a type of metal fitting that was used to protect the end of a scabbard. It was derived from the Middle Dutch word "kap" or "chappe," which had the same meaning.

Over time, the word "chap" began to be used metaphorically to refer to the cheek or jaw. This is likely because the metal fitting at the end of a scabbard would often cover the cheek of the person wearing it.

By the 16th century, "chap" had come to be used more generally to refer to a person, especially a man or boy. It was often used in a familiar or affectionate way.

Today, the word "chap" is still used in all of its original senses. It is a common term of endearment in British English and is also used in a more general sense to refer to any person.

chap relate terms

  • chapman

    Etymology Old English cēapmann Proto Germanic kaupmann Proto Indo European ḱau

  • cheap

    Etymology The word cheap originates from the Old English word cēap meaning buy or

  • cheap

    Etymology The word cheap originates from the Old English word cēap meaning buy or

  • chapman

    Etymology Old English cēapmann Proto Germanic kaupmann Proto Indo European ḱau

  • chop

    Etymology The word chop derives from the Old English word ceappan meaning to buy or

  • coup

    Etymology The word coup is derived from the French verb cooper meaning to cut or

  • cranny

    Etymology Middle English crenel from Old French crenel from Medieval Latin crena

  • fellow

    Etymology Fellow comes from Middle English felowe which in turn originated from Old

  • merchant

    Etymology The word merchant originates from the Latin word mercatus meaning trade

  • joker

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  • buzz

    Etymology and Meaning The word buzz has several etymological roots Old English bys

  • character

    Character Etymology Meaning and Origin Etymology The word character derives from th

  • impression

    Etymology The word impression comes from the Latin word impressio which means a mar