blue-chip

UK: ˌbluːˈtʃɪp | US: ˌbluːˈtʃɪp

Definition

  1. adj. referring to high-quality, reliable, and financially stable investments or companies

  2. adj. (by extension) denoting excellence, prestige, or top-tier status in any field

Structure
blue <color symbolizing trust/quality>chip <gaming token representing value>
Etymology

The term originates from poker, where "blue chips" traditionally held the highest monetary value among gaming tokens. By the early 20th century, it metaphorically extended to stocks of leading companies with stable dividends (e.g., Dow Jones Industrials). The "blue" evokes trust (cf. "true blue"), while "chip" reflects tangible worth.

Examples

  1. Investors prefer blue-chip stocks for long-term portfolios.

  2. She joined a blue-chip law firm after graduation.

  3. The tournament features only blue-chip athletes.

  4. This university is the blue-chip choice for engineering studies.

  5. Their blue-chip reputation attracts top talent globally.