chick

American  

[chik] / tʃɪk /

noun

1. a young chicken or other bird.

2. a child.

3. Slang: Often Offensive. a term used to refer to a girl or young woman.

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chick British  

/ tʃɪk /

noun

1. the young of a bird, esp of a domestic fowl

2. slang a girl or young woman, esp an attractive one

3. a young child: used as a term of endearment

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Sensitive Note

As a term used to refer to a young woman, chick is slightly dated. Originally it was perceived as insulting because of the perception that it infantilized women. Now the word has been embraced by some women as a positive term of self-reference and an expression of camaraderie. When used as a modifier, as in chick flick and chick lit, its meaning is not restricted to young women and its use is not offensive.

Etymology

Origin of chick

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English chike, variant of chiken; chicken

Explanation

A chick is a baby bird, especially a just-hatched chicken. Chicks are small, yellow, and fluffy. Chick can describe most young birds, from an eagle chick to a flamingo chick, or be used more generally: "Dogs aren't allowed on the beach because of the nesting seabirds and their chicks." What most people picture when they think of a chick, though, is a newly hatched chicken, and in fact the word is a 14th century shortened form of chicken. It's also long been an informal, slightly offensive term for a young woman.

Example Sentences

What’s known as “pip watch” started earlier this week, a time of high anticipation when livestream viewers watch for signs of a chick breaking out of its shell.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

Even if the egg hatches, it could be a while before scientists can confirm a chick is there.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 5, 2026

Extinction was projected only in hypothetical scenarios where very low juvenile survival occurred, with around 20% failing to reach adulthood, combined with extremely poor reproduction limited to a maximum of one chick per pair.

From Science Daily • Feb. 8, 2026

It’s no mere comfort watch, and certainly no chick flick.

From Salon • Dec. 17, 2025

“I heard that Johanna chick say it,” Martin said.

From "Anger Is a Gift" by Mark Oshiro

Related Words

• gal
• girl
• woman
• young woman