Not sure what chink means? Well, the word "chink" is a derogatory term used to describe those of Asian decent. Though the slang term refers specifically to Chinese people, most people using the word do not (or cannot) distinguish between different Asian types. It is considered highly derogatory and could be seen as the equivalent to calling an African American person a "nigger" or a Hispanic person a "spic."

So, how did this label come into existence? Well, the dictionary defines the word chink as a "narrow opening" or "crack, cleft or fissure." Therefore, it seems the word transitioned to a label for Chinese or Asian people in reference to the shape and/or size of their eyes.

On the other hand, chink could have also come from the mass amount of Chinese immigrants who worked on the railroad during the turn of the century. They were in charge of piecing together the railroad tracks and the sound of the hammer hitting the rail made the sound, "chink, chink."

Moreover, some people think that "chink" is a mispronunciation of the Chinese word "chung-kao" which means "China," or is an abbreviated version of another derogatory term "china-men."

Like other ethnic slurs, chink is sometimes used among Asian people to address one another--usually as a way to adopt the word and create a new meaning or context while exposing its negative impact on society.

For example, The Chinkees (an all-Asian ska-punk band) chose their name to bring attention to the term and point out that racism still exists. The Chinkees donate 10% of their profits to anti-racism organizations. Also, the comic Kate Rigg has a show called Chink-o-rama which, according to her, is "Way more fun than an essay on semiotics."