Chump Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/tʃʌmp/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A foolish or annoying person, often used to describe someone who is easily deceived or taken advantage of.

Examples

• He’s such a chump for falling for that scam.
• The con artist preyed on naive chumps who wanted to make quick money.
• The character in the movie is a lovable but hapless chump who always gets into trouble.
• She’s trying to warn her friend, who’s being selfish and chumpish, about the consequences of his actions.
• He’s been treated like a chump his whole life, and it’s finally time for him to stand up for himself.
• The company is taking advantage of its chump employees, paying them minimum wage while the executives make millions.

Synonyms

• Fool
• Mush
• Dunce
• Simpleton

Antonyms

• Cunning
• Savvy
• Perceptive
• Wise

Additional Information

The term “chump” is often used to describe someone who is vulnerable to exploitation or manipulation. It can also refer to someone who is gullible or easily deceived. In some cases, the term can be used in a more playful or affectionate way to describe a friend or loved one who is easily tricked or taken advantage of.

In the past, the term “chump” was used to describe the edible parts of a deer’s head, which were cut and formed into a decorative shape.

The etymology of the word “chump” is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the late 19th century as a slang term in the United States.

Etymology

The origin of the word “chump” is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the late 19th century as a slang term in the United States.

Usage Notes

The term “chump” is often used in informal settings, such as conversations with friends or online forums. However, it is generally considered impolite to use the term to describe someone in a derogatory way, especially if you are not close friends with the person.

Cultural References

The term “chump” has been used in various TV shows, movies, and books to describe a character who is foolish or gullible.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Don’t be a chump, think for yourself!
• He’s such a chump for falling for that scam.
• She’s a chump for believing that!

Related Words or Phrases

• Fool
• Mush
• Dunce
• Simpleton
• Nation of Islam

Collocations

• a chump at cards
• a chump at electronics
• a chump at math
• a chump at sport

Frequency of Use

The term “chump” is not as commonly used as some other slang terms, but it is still widely recognized and understood in informal settings.

Common Misspellings

• Chumper
• Chumps
• Chymce
• Chompp