chops

plural noun

ˈchäps 

1

: jaw

2

a

: mouth

b

: the fleshy covering of the jaws

a dog licking its chops

3

: embouchure

broadly : the technical facility of a musical performer

4

: expertise in a particular field or activity

acting chops

Synonyms

• experience
• expertise
• know-how
• moxie
• proficiency
• savvy
• skills

Examples of chops in a Sentence

that pianist really doesn't yet have the musical chops to do that piece justice

the toddler popped a candy into his chops and grinned stickily

Word History

Etymology

alteration of chap entry 3

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing chops

• bust someone's chops
• lick one's chops

Kids Definition

chops

plural noun

ˈchäps 

1

: mouth entry 1 sense 1

2

: the fleshy covering of the jaws