chopper
UK: ˈtʃɒpə | US: ˈtʃɑːpər
n. 1. A tool or machine for chopping (e.g., a meat chopper).
n. 2. Informal term for a helicopter.
n. 3. Slang for a motorcycle, especially one with modified handlebars.
vt. 1. To cut or chop repeatedly.
The word "chopper" originates from the verb "chop" (Middle English "choppen," meaning to cut or strike), combined with the agentive suffix "-er," denoting a tool or person performing the action. The term evolved to describe machines (e.g., food choppers) and later expanded metaphorically to helicopters (mid-20th century, from the sound of rotor blades "chopping" the air) and motorcycles (1960s counterculture slang, emphasizing their rugged, modified appearance).
She used a chopper to dice vegetables quickly.
The rescue team arrived in a military chopper.
He rides his custom chopper on weekends.
The chef chopped herbs with a mechanical chopper.
News choppers circled above the accident scene.