chopstick
UK: /ˈtʃɒp.stɪk/ | US: /ˈtʃɑːp.stɪk/
n. one of a pair of thin sticks used as eating utensils, especially in East Asian cultures
chopstick = chop<quick> + stick<rod>
- chop<quick>: Derived from Chinese Pidgin English "chop" (快, meaning "quick" or "hurry"), influenced by Cantonese "kàp" (急, "urgent").
- stick<rod>: From Old English "sticca," meaning a slender piece of wood.
Etymology Origin:
The term "chopstick" emerged in the 17th century through maritime trade between English speakers and Chinese communities. "Chop" reflects the brisk motion of using the utensils, while "stick" describes their shape. The word’s hybrid structure captures both function (speed) and form (slender rods), making it a vivid example of cultural-linguistic blending.
She skillfully picked up a dumpling with her chopsticks.
Bamboo chopsticks are eco-friendly and widely used.
He struggled to use chopsticks for the first time.
The restaurant provided disposable wooden chopsticks.
Traditional Korean chopsticks are often made of metal.