Langimage
English

chicken

|chick/en|

A1

/ˈtʃɪkɪn/

domestic fowl

Etymology
Etymology Information

'chicken' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'cicen', where 'cicen' meant 'young fowl'.

Historical Evolution

'cicen' changed from the Old English word 'cicen' and eventually became the modern English word 'chicken'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'young fowl', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'domestic fowl' and 'cowardly person'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a domestic fowl kept for its eggs or meat, especially a young one.

We have a chicken coop in our backyard.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a cowardly person.

Don't be such a chicken; try the roller coaster!

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 1

cowardly or easily frightened.

He was too chicken to ask her out on a date.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35