A man or male friend; fellow
Chap
Example Sentences
"He's a decent chap."
"Who's that chap over there?"
Etymology & History
British term for man or fellow, shortened from 'chapman' (merchant, trader). In use since the 16th century, originally meant customer or buyer, evolved to mean any man. More middle-class than 'bloke', suggests respectability. 'Good chap', 'old chap' are characteristically British expressions.
Word Details
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Region
General British
📅
Era
Modern
✓
Language
Mild
💬
Formality
Informal
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Anglotopia's Dictionary of British English 2nd Edition
British Slang from A to Zed
By Jonathan Thomas
📚 Over 2,000+ British Slang Definitions!