: the seed coverings and other debris separated from the seed in threshing grain
2
: something comparatively worthless
a few kernels of wisdom amid much discursive chaff Steven Raichlen
3
: the scales borne on the receptacle among the florets in the heads of many composite plants
4
: material (such as strips of foil or clusters of fine wires) ejected into the air for reflecting radar waves (as for confusing an enemy's radar detection)
Verbchaffed her about the brightly colored shirt she had received as a gift a coworker who likes to chaff at others' expense, and this often results in hurt feelings
Word History
Etymology
Noun (1)
Middle English chaf, from Old English ceaf; akin to Old High German cheva husk