Stump

/stʌmp/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The bottom part of a tree trunk left after the rest has been cut down.

The children used the tree stump as a seat while they played in the yard.

A part of something that is left over; a remnant.

After carving the pumpkin, only a small stump remained.

A short, thick piece of something, particularly a cigar or cigarette.

He put out the stump of his cigar in the ashtray.

verb

To remove the stump of a tree.

They stumped the old oak tree to clear the land for new construction.

To confuse or baffle someone, especially with a difficult question.

The complex math problem stumped the students during the exam.

To walk or move in a clumsy, heavy way.

He stumped down the hallway, dragging his feet.

From Middle English 'stomp', from Old English 'stumpa'; of unknown origin.

stump speech

A standard speech used by politicians while campaigning.

stump up

To pay money, especially reluctantly.

stumper

A difficult problem or question.

stumping

The act of cutting down trees or performing in politics.

stumpage

The value of standing timber.

To stump someone in a game or competition.

He stumped his friends with that tricky question.

To stop or hinder someone from progressing.

Don't let the challenges stump you; keep pushing forward.