The New International Encyclopædia/Chic

CHIC, shē̇k (Fr., probably from Ger. Geschick, fate, destiny, skill, dexterity, knack). A word in modern colloquial use, of foreign origin. The term is used in painting to express the art of giving efficiency in the most dexterous manner possible, with ability and adroitness closely united. The word is also employed in connection with fashion; and, spoken of in this sense, means style, manner, grace, and ‘go.’ Although of German origin, it has been received into general usage through the French, the language which fixed the present form of the word. See Pschutt.