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

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

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

“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

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