What is what does it mean to have a chip on your shoulder?

Having a "chip on your shoulder" means someone is harboring a persistent feeling of resentment or bitterness, often stemming from a real or imagined past injustice. This feeling can manifest as:

• Defensiveness: An individual may be quick to take offense or interpret remarks as personal attacks. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Defensiveness
• Aggression: The resentment can lead to verbal or even physical aggression, as the person feels the need to constantly prove themselves or assert their dominance.
• Suspicion: A chip on the shoulder can cause someone to be distrustful of others and assume negative intentions.
• Pessimism: A general negativity and cynicism about life and people. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Pessimism
• Difficulty in Relationships: It can strain relationships, as others may find the person difficult to be around due to their constant negativity or defensiveness.
• Insecurity: Often, a chip on the shoulder masks underlying feelings of insecurity or inadequacy. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Insecurity

The origin of the phrase is believed to come from a practice where someone would literally carry a small piece of wood (a "chip") on their shoulder, daring others to knock it off as a way of initiating a fight or displaying their readiness for conflict. This symbolizes the readiness of the person with the metaphorical chip to engage in conflict due to their perceived grievances.