chip
“chip” means “microchip” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
microchip, integrated circuit
📝 In Action
Necesitamos cambiar el chip de memoria del ordenador.
B1We need to change the memory chip in the computer.
Este nuevo chip es más rápido y consume menos energía.
B2This new chip is faster and uses less energy.
La tarjeta de crédito tiene un chip de seguridad.
B1The credit card has a security chip.
potato chip, crisp
Also: snack
📝 In Action
Compramos una bolsa de chips para ver la película.
A2We bought a bag of chips (crisps) to watch the movie.
No comas tantos chips antes de la cena.
A2Don't eat so many chips before dinner.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: chip
Question 1 of 1
Which of these objects contains a 'chip' in the technological sense?
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👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
A direct borrowing (loanword) from the English word 'chip'. It entered Spanish usage primarily through technology (the integrated circuit) and commercial food packaging.
First recorded: Mid-20th century (for the electronic sense); late 20th century (for the snack sense)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'chip' a formal Spanish word?
Yes and no. In technology, 'chip' is widely accepted and used in formal contexts. However, when referring to the snack food, it is considered informal slang or commercial language; native terms like 'papas fritas' are usually preferred in general conversation.
How do I say 'fish and chips'?
You should not use 'chips' here. For the British dish 'fish and chips,' the Spanish translation usually uses 'patatas fritas' (for the thick-cut fries): 'pescado con patatas fritas'.