This idiom describes someone who closely resembles their parent or ancestor in character, behavior, or appearance. It suggests that the person is a direct reflection or continuation of their predecessor, much like a chip carved from a larger block of wood retains its qualities. The phrase is often used affectionately or admiringly, though it can also imply inheriting flaws.

The phrase dates to the 17th century, rooted in woodworking metaphors. An early version appears in a 1621 sermon by Bishop John Earle: ‘The sonne is a chippe of the olde blocke.’ The imagery reflects the idea that a chip from a block shares its grain and essence. By the 18th century, it was common in English, with literary uses by Samuel Johnson and Edmund Burke. In the 19th century, American writers like Ralph Waldo Emerson adopted it, emphasizing familial resemblance in character. Its enduring use reflects its vivid, relatable imagery.