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chaff

[chaf]

chaff Definition

  • 1the husks of corn or other seed separated by winnowing or threshing
  • 2worthless things; rubbish
  • 3light-hearted joking; banter

Using chaff: Examples

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

  • Example

    The farmer separated the wheat from the chaff.

  • Example

    The book was full of chaff and lacked substance.

  • Example

    The group engaged in friendly chaff during their game night.

chaff Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for chaff

Antonyms for chaff

Idioms Using chaff

  • to remove the worthless or unimportant parts of something

    Example

    We need to blow away the chaff and focus on the most important aspects of this project.

  • to distinguish those who are truly skilled or capable from those who are not

    Example

    This competition will separate the men from the boys and show who is truly the best.

  • throw caution to the wind(s)

    to take a risk without worrying about the consequences

    Example

    He threw caution to the wind and quit his job to pursue his dream.

Phrases with chaff

  • to distinguish valuable people or things from worthless ones

    Example

    It's important to separate the wheat from the chaff when hiring new employees.

  • a machine used to cut straw or hay into small pieces

    Example

    The farmer used a chaff cutter to prepare food for his livestock.

  • a bag used to collect chaff during threshing

    Example

    The workers filled several chaff bags with the leftover husks.

Origins of chaff

from Old English 'ceaf', meaning 'husks of corn'

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Summary: chaff in Brief

The term 'chaff' [chaf] refers to the husks of corn or other seeds separated by threshing, as well as to worthless things or light-hearted joking. It can be used in phrases like 'separate the wheat from the chaff,' meaning to distinguish valuable from worthless things, or 'blow away the chaff,' meaning to remove unimportant parts. 'Chaff' can also be used in idioms like 'throw caution to the wind(s),' meaning to take a risk without worrying about the consequences.