colloq. [f. CHAP sb.3 + -IE, -Y4.] Little chap or fellow. (Used colloquially of a ‘chum’ or intimate friend; orig. Sc.)
1822. Galt, Sir A. Wylie, III. xxvii. 229 (Jam.). He was a clever chappie. Ibid. (1830), Laurie T., I. viii. (1849), 29. Ye’re an auld farrant chappy.
1885. Punch, 3 Jan., 4/1. Still I wish you a ’Appy New Year, if your care for the kibosh, old Chappie.
