chip on one's shoulder

== English == === Etymology === The saying originated during the 19th century in the United States, where people wanting a physical fight would carry a chip of wood on their shoulder, daring others to knock it off. === Pronunciation === === Noun === chip on one's shoulder (plural chips on one's shoulder) A form of challenge, in the same spirit as a medieval knight throwing down his gauntlet. 1830, The Onondaga Standard, Syracuse NY, 8 December: ‘Oh! if I only could get him to knock a chip off my shoulder, and so get round the law, I would give him one of the soundest thrashings he ever had.’ (idiomatic) A habitually combative attitude, usually because of a harbored grievance, a sense of inferiority, or a desire to prove something. (idiomatic) A tendency to take offence quickly. ==== Usage notes ==== Its usage over time has changed, now suggesting somebody who displays a belligerent attitude, acting as though they are asking for a fight. The chip is now figurative, but the idea remains the same. ==== Translations ==== ==== See also ==== === See also === thorn in someone's side chip off the old block mote (in thy brother's eye) — from Matthew 7:3 === Further reading === Gary Martin (1997–), “Chip on your shoulder”, in The Phrase Finder. Michael Quinion (1996–2026), “Chip on one's shoulder”, in World Wide Words. “a chip on one’s shoulder”, in Lexico, Dictionary.com; Oxford University Press, 2019–2022.