Chink: Definition, Usage & Examples

Meaning 1：narrow crack (chink)

chink 🔊

/tʃɪŋk/

A narrow opening or crack in something, especially one that lets light shine through.

narrow crack 🔊

➕

/ˈnærəʊ kræk/

A very narrow opening, fissure, or crack in a solid object, such as a wall, door, or piece of armor, which is often noticeable because it allows light, air, or sound to pass through.

📁 Category：Objects & Materials 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Likely of imitative origin, related to Middle English 'chinken', meaning 'to jingle or clink', possibly influenced by the sound of small objects striking together or light passing through a narrow gap.

💡 Mnemonic

Imagine a 'chink' of light 'chinking' like a coin as it slips through a crack in a wall. The sound and the visual of a thin, bright line help lock in the meaning.

📖 Example

Early morning light streamed into the dark room through a chink in the heavy curtains. 🔊 Early morning light streamed into the dark room through a narrow crack in the heavy curtains.

🔗 Collocations

a chink in the armor – a weak point in someone's or something's defenses or arguments

light through a chink – light passing through a narrow opening

🔄 Synonyms

crack (n.) – A line on the surface of something along which it has split without breaking apart.

gap (n.) – A break or hole in an object or between two objects.

fissure (n.) – A long, narrow opening or line of breakage, often in rock or earth.

🚫 Antonyms

seal (n.) – Something that closes an opening completely, making it airtight or watertight.

closure (n.) – The act or process of closing something so that it is not open.

📖 Cultural Story

The word 'chink' as a noun for a narrow opening has been part of the English language since the 16th century. Its most famous modern application is in the metaphorical phrase 'a chink in one's armor' (or 'armor'), referring to a vulnerable point in an otherwise strong defense or argument. This usage is prevalent in business, legal, and strategic discussions to identify weaknesses in plans or positions.