chin-chin

American  

[chin-chin] / ˈtʃɪnˌtʃɪn /

noun

1. polite and ceremonious speech.

2. light conversation; chitchat.

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verb (used without object)

chin-chinned, chin-chinning

1. to speak politely and ceremoniously.

2. to talk casually and lightly; chat.

interjection

1. (used as a greeting or farewell.)

2. (used as a toast, as in drinking to someone's health.)

chin-chin British  

1. informal a greeting, farewell, or toast

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Etymology

Origin of chin-chin

First recorded in 1785–95; from Chinese qǐng-qǐng literally, “please, please,” used as a greeting and as a toast in drinking

Example Sentences

Many of the girls, mindful of Viet Cong retribution for consorting with Americans, now alter the traditional toast, chin-chin�to your health�to chin-chin, Ho Chi Minh.

From Time Magazine Archive

The Swingle Singers, however, sing it straight in the most elementary scat dialect�mainly "da-ba, da-ba" and "doo-boo, doo-boo," with an occasional "papa-da, chin-chin" or "waap" tossed in for special accents.

From Time Magazine Archive

He was reminded of going back to the village with his mother at Christmas, aunties offering him plates of chin-chin.

From "Americanah" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

“Then I will put the chin-chin in a bag for you,” Mama said.

From "Purple Hibiscus" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

A plate of chin-chin was balanced on top of the drinks.

From "Purple Hibiscus" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie