chalk

chalk · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A soft, white, porous form of limestone composed of calcium carbonate.

  2. 2.

    To write, draw, or mark with chalk.

  3. 3.

    A stick of chalk or similar substance used for writing or drawing.

Forms

plural: chalks

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    chalk it up to — to attribute something to a particular cause
  • •
    chalk and cheese — completely different (British)
  • •
    by a long chalk — by a great amount (British)
  • •
    not by a long chalk — not at all (British)

Related words

See also: blackboard, limestone, write

Etymology

From Old English cealc, from Latin calx ("limestone, lime"), from Greek khalix ("pebble, small stone").