chook
noun · casual
A chicken.
How Aussies use it
- We're having roast chook for dinner.
- My neighbours keep chooks in the backyard.
How to pronounce ‘chook’
Say it like this: CHOOK (rhymes with book)
‘chook’ in a conversation
Grandad: Can you feed the chooks before school?
Ella: Sure. How many eggs today?
Good to know
Used for both live chickens and chicken as food.
A common mistake
'Chook' can mean a live chicken or the cooked one: 'Grab a hot chook from the supermarket for dinner.'
Saying it more formally
In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use chicken instead.
Slang is great for chatting with friends and workmates, but keep it out of PTE essays and formal writing.
Quick check
What does ‘chook’ mean?
- Sweets, candy.
- A chicken.
- A toilet, especially an old outdoor one.
Show the answer
B. A chicken.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'chook' mean in Australia?
A chicken. Used for both live chickens and chicken as food.
Can I say 'chook' at work?
With workmates, yes. 'chook' is fine in a chat at smoko or a casual message, but don't use it with clients, in formal emails, or in the PTE and IELTS writing tests.
How do you pronounce 'chook'?
Say it like this: CHOOK (rhymes with book). Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.