bum
0 antonyms and opposites of bum, grouped by meaning.
Noun — British informal term for the buttocks.
How to use bum
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Informal throughout; "bum" as a noun for a homeless person is now considered dated and can be seen as disrespectful.
Etymology
Recorded since the 1300s as Middle English "bom"; its ultimate origin is uncertain, though some link it to imitative (sound-based) coinage.
Full origin of bum →Frequently asked questions
Why is calling someone a "bum" considered offensive?
Using "bum" to mean a homeless person or a lazy, useless person is dated and often offensive, since it stereotypes people experiencing homelessness or unemployment negatively. Modern usage generally avoids this sense in favor of more respectful and accurate terms.
What does it mean to "bum" something off someone?
As a verb, "to bum" something means to ask for or obtain it for free in an informal, often mildly imposing way, such as "bumming a cigarette" from a friend. It suggests casual borrowing or freeloading rather than a formal request.