lump
Lump (noun) means a solid piece or mass of something without a definite shape. Example: “She added a lump of butter to the pan.”
How to use lump
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA shapeless chunk of something, a bodily swelling, or (as a verb) grouping things together carelessly.
A "lump" under the skin should always be mentioned to a doctor — in casual usage it's neutral, but people often use it specifically to describe something worth checking medically.
Word forms
- Singular
- lumps
- Plural
- lumps
- Past tense
- lumped
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She added a _____ of butter to the pan.
Etymology
From Middle English lumpe, from a Germanic root related to words for something loose or hanging — compare German Lumpen, "rag."
Related words
Rhymes for lump
See all rhymes for lump →Frequently asked questions
What does “lump” mean?
The word “lump” means a solid piece or mass of something without a definite shape. In plain terms, a shapeless chunk of something, a bodily swelling, or (as a verb) grouping things together carelessly.
How do you pronounce “lump”?
“Lump” is pronounced luhmp (/lʌmp/ in IPA).
How do you use “lump” in a sentence?
Here is “lump” used in a sentence: “She added a lump of butter to the pan.”
What part of speech is “lump”?
Depending on how it is used, “lump” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “lump” come from?
The word “lump” comes from Middle English. From Middle English lumpe, from a Germanic root related to words for something loose or hanging — compare German Lumpen, "rag.".
Is “lump” a common word?
“Lump” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “lump” have?
“Lump” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a solid piece or mass of something without a definite shape.
What is the difference between lump and chunk?
Both words describe a solid piece or mass of something without a definite shape, and they're often interchangeable. Chunk sometimes suggests a piece deliberately cut or broken off, while lump can also refer to a swelling, such as one felt under the skin.
What does it mean to "lump" things together?
As a verb, to lump things together means to group different items or people as if they were the same, without much care for their individual differences. It often carries a slightly negative tone, suggesting an oversimplified or careless grouping.
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