potato chip

American  

noun

1. a thin slice of potato fried until crisp and usually salted.

---

potato chip British  

noun

1. (usually plural) another name for chip

2. Also called (in eg Britain): crisp.  (usually plural) a very thin slice of potato fried and eaten cold as a snack

---

Etymology

Origin of potato chip

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

Mention French onion dip and most people immediately picture a ridged potato chip.

From Salon • Jun. 2, 2026

This is essentially “shrinkflation,” like when a potato chip manufacturer keeps prices steady but puts fewer chips in the bag.

From Barron's • May 29, 2026

Removing that fiber from its natural habitat and putting it in a potato chip, for instance, can reduce the health benefits.

From MarketWatch • May 10, 2026

"I just pop it in my mouth like a potato chip," she said, adding that it feels like a "healthier alternative".

From BBC • Feb. 4, 2026

Mi perrito rolls His tongue for the taste Of a dropped chicharrdn, For the jawbreaker That fell from my pocket, For a potato chip bag Blowing across a lawn.

From "Neighborhood Odes" by Gary Soto