Definition & Meaning of "chav"in English

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

"Chav" is a British slang term that emerged in the 1990s to describe young lower-class people perceived as uncultured, aggressive, and flashy, often wearing sportswear or flashy jewelry. The word likely comes from the Romani word chavi, meaning "child," though it was popularized in mainstream media to stereotype a social group. It is typically used in a derogatory way in newspapers, online discussions, and everyday speech to criticize manners, style, or behavior. While occasionally reclaimed humorously by some, it is mostly offensive and classist in tone.