First Known Use: 1581
Dictionary
1bump
noun \ˈbəmp\
: an area of skin that is raised because it was hit, injured, etc.
: a small raised area on a surface
: an act of something hitting against something else
Full Definition of BUMP
1
: a relatively abrupt convexity or protuberance on a surface: as a : a swelling of tissue b : a cranial protuberance
2
a : a sudden forceful blow, impact, or jolt b : demotion
3
: an act of thrusting the hips forward in an erotic manner
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Origin of BUMP
probably imitative of the sound of a blow
Other Anatomy Terms
2bump
verb
: to hit (something, such as part of your body) against an object in a sudden and forceful way
: to hit and move (someone or something)
: to move into or against (someone or something) in a sudden and forceful way
Full Definition of BUMP
transitive verb
1
: to strike or knock with force or violence
2
: to collide with
3
a (1) : to dislodge with a jolt (2) : to subject to a scalar change <rates being bumped up> b : to oust usually by virtue of seniority or priority <was bumped from the flight>
intransitive verb
1
: to knock against something with a forceful jolt
2
: to proceed in or as if in a series of bumps
3
: to encounter something that is an obstacle or hindrance <bumped up against a chair>
— bump into
: to encounter especially by chance
See bump defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of BUMP
1581
BUMPS Defined for Kids
1bump
noun \ˈbəmp\
Definition of BUMP for Kids
1
: a rounded swelling of flesh as from an injury
2
: a small raised area on a surface
3
: a sudden heavy impact or jolt
2bump
verb
bumpedbump·ing
Definition of BUMP for Kids
1
: to strike or knock against something <Open your eyes before you bump into something.>
2
: to move along unevenly : jolt <The car bumped over the dirt road.>
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