Have a chip on your shoulder

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Meaning

Carry a grudge or edge, all prick.

Origin

From 19th-century America, tied to fights; chips on shoulder dared a knock, slang by 1840s in a tale for beef. A 1850s 'New York Times' uses it for a grudge.

Usage Examples

  • He's got a chip on his shoulder; mad still.
  • Have a chip on your shoulder; grumpy much?
  • Chip on; sore spot there.

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