chunkhound

Index and semantically search local code repositories with AST-aware chunking.

Updated Aug 23, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/cameronsjo/dev-toolkit --skill chunkhound-cameronsjo
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: chunkhound
Source: https://github.com/cameronsjo/dev-toolkit/tree/main/skills/chunkhound
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/cameronsjo/dev-toolkit --skill chunkhound-cameronsjo

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Local-first semantic code search enables you to understand and reason about large codebases by indexing and querying code semantically, eliminating the need for manual grep or guesswork.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Local-first indexing with AST-aware chunking to enable precise search across thousands of files
  • MCP server integration to expose search and research capabilities to Claude/LLMs
  • Supports both search (fast, exact matches) and research (multi-hop analysis with structured output)
  • On-prem/offline operation and multi-language support to protect sensitive data
  • Ideal for onboarding to unfamiliar monorepos, architectural analysis, and cross-file code comprehension

Quick Start

Index your codebase with chunkhound index and then perform semantic searches with chunkhound search.

Frequently Asked Questions about chunkhound

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I perform semantic code search across a large monorepo?

You can perform semantic code search by indexing your codebase locally and querying it with natural language. This approach uses AST-aware chunking to enable precise searches across thousands of files in a monorepo without relying on manual grep.

Can I run local code search offline to keep sensitive data on-prem?

Yes, local code search supports fully on-prem and offline operation. By utilizing optional Docker or Ollama configurations, you can index and query sensitive codebase data without any external network calls.

Does semantic code search work with MCP-enabled LLM setups?

Semantic code search integrates directly via an MCP server to expose search and research capabilities to LLMs. This allows Claude and other MCP-enabled setups to perform multi-hop analysis and structured output generation over your codebase.

What is the best way to onboard to an unfamiliar poly-language codebase?

The best way to onboard to unfamiliar poly-language codebases is using local semantic search to answer cross-file inquiries and perform architectural analysis. It eliminates guesswork by indexing multiple programming languages simultaneously for comprehensive queries.

What are the requirements to set up local semantic code search?

Setting up local semantic code search requires Python 3.10–3.13, an MCP-enabled environment, and a project root containing a .chunkhound.json configuration file. Optional Docker or Ollama setups are available for offline operation.

Why use AST-aware chunking for code search instead of exact text matching?

AST-aware chunking for code search provides precise semantic context by understanding code structure, unlike exact text matching. It enables fast searches for exact matches alongside deep research analysis for understanding complex cross-file logic.