Definition & Meaning of "chump"in English

What is the origin of the term "chump" and how is it used?

Chump is a slang term that appeared in early 20th-century American English to describe a person who is foolish, easily fooled, or generally displeasing. The word likely comes from earlier slang for a lump or piece of something, metaphorically applied to someone seen as dull or simple-minded. Literally, it labels a person as weak, gullible, or annoying. Historically, it was derogatory but mild, used to mock or belittle someone, and today it remains informal and lightly insulting, often in teasing or critical contexts rather than overtly vulgar speech.