why is an IC called a chip?

Question

why is an IC called a chip?

Answer 1

IC is what is inside a chip

IC is the acronym of Integrated Circuits

IC is actually very very small than the chip that you see. It may be ranging in size from few micrometers to few millimeters. The chip is just the package of the integrated circuit inside because to connect the circuit in physical world requires some min dimensions for soldering purpose

Answer 2

An IC (Integrated Circuit) is based ona silicon wafer, which is quite often referred to as a "chip" for obvious reasons :)