chalk (EN)

noun, verb

noun “chalk”

1. a small stick of this substance or something similar, used for writing or drawing, especially on a blackboard
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   The teacher used white chalk to draw a diagram on the blackboard.
2. a soft, white, powdery rock
   The ancient fossils were embedded in the chalk, making the white rock formations fascinating to study.
3. a white powder used in sports like climbing, gymnastics, and weight-lifting to keep hands from slipping
   Before attempting the difficult climb, she rubbed chalk on her hands to ensure a firm grip.
4. the team or player that is expected to win in a sports betting situation
   Everyone expected the chalk to win, but the underdog pulled off a surprising victory.
5. a special type of chalk used by tailors and dressmakers to mark fabric for alterations, which can be removed later
   The tailor used white chalk to mark where the dress needed to be shortened.
6. a group of soldiers, especially paratroopers, who all come from the same airplane
   The first chalk of soldiers jumped from the plane and parachuted into the field below.

verb “chalk”

1. to use chalk to write or draw
   The teacher chalked a big smiley face on the blackboard.
2. to rub chalk on something, like the tip of a billiard cue
   Before taking his shot, he carefully chalked the tip of his billiard cue.
3. to make something white or pale, as if covering it with chalk
   The morning fog began to chalk the landscape, turning everything a ghostly white.
4. to note down a score or an event as if writing it on a chalkboard
   She chalked up another victory in the tennis tournament.
5. to spread chalk on soil as a form of fertilizer
   Farmers often chalk their fields to improve soil quality before planting crops.