chafe

[tʃeɪf]

chafe Definition

• 1. to become or make something become sore or worn by rubbing
• 2. to feel annoyed or impatient because of a restriction or inconvenience

Using chafe: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "chafe" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The tight shoes chafed his feet.

• Example

  The rough fabric chafed against her skin.

• Example

  He chafed under the restrictions imposed on him by his parents.

• Example

  She chafed at the delay caused by the traffic jam.

• Example

  The constant criticism began to chafe on her nerves.

chafe Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for chafe

• irritate
• rub
• abrade
• grate
• annoy

Antonyms for chafe

• soothe
• comfort

Phrases with chafe

• chafe at the bit

  to be impatient or restless because of a delay or restriction

  Example

  The athletes were chafing at the bit, eager to start the race.

• chafe someone's hide

  to irritate or annoy someone

  Example

  His constant complaining was really chafing my hide.

• chafe under the collar

  to feel angry or irritated about something

  Example

  He was chafing under the collar about the way he had been treated.

Origins of chafe

from Old English 'ceafian', meaning 'to heat, warm'

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Summary: chafe in Brief

The verb 'chafe' [tʃeɪf] means to rub and cause soreness or irritation, or to feel annoyed or impatient due to a restriction or inconvenience. Examples include 'The tight shoes chafed his feet,' and 'She chafed at the delay caused by the traffic jam.' Phrases like 'chafe at the bit' and 'chafe someone's hide' denote impatience and irritation, respectively.