Parts of Speech: Noun
Definition: (1) the part of an animals face that includes the jaw and cheekbones; (2) the ability to play a musical instrument or perform a skill well
Pronunciations: US: /tʃɑps/; UK: /tʃɒps/
Origin and Usage: (1) The word "chops" originated from the Old English word "ceap" meaning "jaw". It has been used to refer to the jaw and cheekbones of an animal since the 16th century. (2) The slang usage of "chops" to refer to the ability to perform a skill well, particularly in music, originated in the 1930s in African American jazz culture.
Synonyms: (1) jaws, cheekbones, face; (2) skills, ability, talent
Related Words: chips, chump, chime, charm, chive
Example Sentences: