Bummer

/ˈbʌm.ər/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A difficult or unpleasant situation.

It's such a bummer that we had to cancel the trip due to bad weather.

A person who is unpleasant or causes problems.

Don't be a bummer at the party by complaining all the time.

An unfortunate or disappointing situation.

Missing the concert was a real bummer for all of us.

verb

To disappoint or to make someone feel unhappy.

The news of the layoffs really bummed me out.

Etymology

The word 'bummer' originally referred to a beggar or loafer in the U.S., possibly derived from the German word 'bummer', meaning 'to take' or 'to rob'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

That's a bummer!

An expression of sympathy for someone who has experienced disappointment.

What a bummer!

A reaction to unexpected bad news or events.

Total bummer

Complete disappointment regarding a situation.

Related Words

disappointment

The feeling of sadness or displeasure caused by the non-fulfillment of one's hopes or expectations.

letdown

A situation where something fails to meet one's expectations.

drag

A situation or event that is tiresome or disappointing.

Slang Meanings

A term used to express disappointment.

It’s a bummer I didn’t get the job.

Used in casual conversation to lament an unfortunate situation.

Being stuck in traffic is such a bummer.