chooks

Chooks is a colloquial term commonly used in Australia and New Zealand to refer to domestic chickens, particularly hens kept for laying eggs. The word is derived from the onomatopoeic sound a chicken makes. While often used informally, "chook" can also be used in a more general sense to describe any chicken. The practice of keeping chooks in backyards for fresh eggs is a popular pastime in many suburban areas of these countries.

The term is generally used affectionately and is part of the everyday language. It can also be applied to male chickens, roosters, though less frequently. In agricultural contexts, the more formal term "poultry" is typically used. The cultural significance of chooks is tied to the idea of self-sufficiency and a connection to a more rural lifestyle, even when kept in urban environments. Beyond their primary role as egg producers, chooks are also sometimes kept as pets due to their generally docile nature. The word itself evokes a sense of familiarity and is widely understood by speakers of Australian and New Zealand English.