What does having a chip on my shoulder mean?

Answer by  devilry (73)

When someone is said to have a "chip on his/her shoulder," it means that person has a particular grievance they are bitter about. One suggested origin refers to a practice where people about to get into a fight would literally put a wood chip on their shoulder and challenge people to knock it off.

Answer by  definer22 (7)

If someone tells you that he thinks you have a chip on your shoulder, he is saying that he thinks you are going around looking for a fight (either verbally or physically). He is saying that you have a negative attitude.