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

See Examples For:

chin-chin chin-chinned chin-chinning

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

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

From "Purple Hibiscus" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

“Would you like Ugwu to bring you some chin-chin? They’re fantastic; he made them this morning.”

From "Half of a Yellow Sun" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

She sat upright on the sofa, legs crossed like an unfamiliar guest, and refused the chin-chin Ugwu brought on a saucer.

From "Half of a Yellow Sun" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Last week Veteran Adman Emerson Foote, 50, a prototype for one of the leading characters in Wakeman's fiction, took the advice in real life, chin-chinned with himself and with his associates and spun the compass.

From Time Magazine Archive

"He was so very glad to see me, and chin-chinned most violently, regretting his inability to give me a present, which I told him was not the custom of our people."

From Boys' Book of Famous Soldiers by McSpadden, J. Walker (Joseph Walker)

The host chin-chinned as they approached, and welcomed them to his establishment.

From The Three Admirals by Wells, J.R.

“Chin-chin,” said he—“that is, if you’ve no particular objection to chin-chinning with a putative criminal of the d’p’st dye?”

From The Bandbox by Vance, Louis Joseph

Mr. Compradore appeared on the poop, "chin-chinning," while we strangers were looking with admiration at the activity of his men in the boat.

From Trade and Travel in the Far East or Recollections of twenty-one years passed in Java, Singapore, Australia and China. by Davidson, G. F.