chump change

noun

1. Slang. a small or insignificant amount of money.

Word History and Origins

Origin of chump change¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Idioms and Phrases

A trivial sum of money, a trivial matter. For example, Dave was sick of working for chump change; he wanted a decent salary , or Don't put that on the agenda; it's chump change . This expression uses chump in the sense of “a fool or sucker who should be ignored.” [ Slang ; 1960s] Also see chicken feed .

Example Sentences

While that’s chump change for top men’s players, it’s a massive step forward in women’s soccer, where the jump in salaries has been fueled by widespread popularity for the game and its players.

From Los Angeles Times

In the lucrative world of college athletics, that sum is considered chump change.

From Los Angeles Times

What is clear is that the Angels got back some chump change for the four players claimed today but the cost in prospects to acquire them might be immeasurable.

From Los Angeles Times

“People were mortified, and continue to be mortified, by the fact that we have this situation that’s unfolding, this new fire paradigm, and the forest service’s just getting chump change to address it,” he said.

From New York Times

“I worked at Hyundai Glovis, a manufacturing plant. I was responsible for basically getting the cars, loading them on the train. I also did a little Door Dash for chump change.”

From Seattle Times