Meaning & Definition of word "Bump"

Bump

/bʌmp/

noun:

  • 1. A small raised area on a surface.
    • Example: There was a noticeable bump on the road that made the car jolt.
  • 2. An act of bumping or being bumped.
    • Example: He felt a bump on his head after hitting it against the door.

verb:

  • 1. To collide with or knock against something.
    • Example: Be careful not to bump into the table as you walk by.
  • 2. To increase or raise something.
    • Example: The producers decided to bump the release date up by a month.
  • 3. To push or shove someone slightly.
    • Example: She accidentally bumped her friend while trying to get to the front of the line.

Etymology

Middle English, of imitative origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

bump into:

to meet someone unexpectedly.

bump up:

to increase or raise something.

bump along:

to move in a rough or jerky manner.

Related Words

bumpkin:

an unsophisticated or socially awkward person from the countryside.

bumpy:

having bumps; uneven.

Slang Meanings of bump

Meaning: to use drugs, particularly to inject.

Example Sentence: He was caught trying to bump at the party.

Meaning: to hit or strike someone in a playful or aggressive way.

Example Sentence: We were just bumping each other for fun.