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.)
a boss with a reputation for chivying his workers about every little thing
Recent Examples on the WebFor 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
Word History
Etymology
chivy, noun, chase, hunt, probably from English dialect Chevy Chase chase, confusion, from the name of a ballad describing the battle of Otterburn (1388)