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Chivy, which is also spelled chivvy, became established in our language in the 19th century and, at first, meant "to harass or chase." Early usage examples are of people chivying a chicken around to catch it and of a person chivying around food that is frying. The verb comes from a British noun chivy meaning "chase" or "hunt." That chivy is believed to be derived from Chevy Chase—a term for "chase" or "confusion" that is taken from the name of a ballad describing the 1388 battle of Otterburn between the Scottish and English. (A chase in this context is an unenclosed tract of land that is used as a game preserve.)
Examples of chivy in a Sentence
Rory Smith, New York Times, 18 Apr. 2023
For smaller losses, says David Gluckman, Lumkani’s boss, policyholders often have to be chivvied into claiming.
—The Economist, 22 Aug. 2019
But radium was rare and costly, with tiny quantities hoarded and chivvied between nations for experiments.
—New York Times, 28 Aug. 2019
After becoming prime minister in 2014, Narendra Modi chivvied bankers to open accounts for everyone.
—The Economist, 6 June 2019
Abloh had booked a club and chivvied the throng to get down there.
—Luke Leitch, Vogue, 28 Feb. 2019
The rich world should focus its attention—and resources, including charity—on chivvying them along.
—The Economist, 1 Mar. 2018
Cite this Entry
“Chivy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chivy. Accessed 2 May. 2025.
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