chump change

noun

1. Slang.,  a small or insignificant amount of money.

Word History and Origins

Origin of chump change¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Idioms and Phrases

A trivial sum of money, a trivial matter. For example, Dave was sick of working for chump change; he wanted a decent salary, or Don't put that on the agenda; it's chump change. This expression uses chump in the sense of “a fool or sucker who should be ignored.” [Slang; 1960s] Also see chicken feed.

Example Sentences

In any case, the border taxes are chump change in the budget.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

I feel like we could whip up a Colin-Sings go fund me that would make Bargatze’s 100 grand look like chump change.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

While that’s chump change for top men’s players, it’s a massive step forward in women’s soccer, where the jump in salaries has been fueled by widespread popularity for the game and its players.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

In the lucrative world of college athletics, that sum is considered chump change.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

What is clear is that the Angels got back some chump change for the four players claimed today but the cost in prospects to acquire them might be immeasurable.

Read more on Los Angeles Times