Search
Select the dictionary language
Chit
01
the bill in a restaurant
Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Inanimate
Composition
Simple
Countable
Plural form
chits
02
a young, impertinent, or insignificant girl or woman
Dated
Offensive
What is the origin of the term "chit" and how is it used?
"Chit" is an English slang term dating back to the 16th–17th centuries used to describe a young, impertinent, or insignificant girl or woman. The word originally referred to a small piece or offshoot of something, creating a metaphor for someone seen as minor or trivial. It appeared in literature and everyday speech to criticize or dismiss youthful arrogance or inexperience. The term is mildly derogatory, often teasing or dismissive rather than deeply offensive.
Examples
The old novel described the forward teenager as an impudent chit.
