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General

hump

What does hump mean?

To carry or lift a load, especially on a long forced march under a full pack. Also the march itself.

"We humped twelve miles with full packs before dawn."

Origin

US military; originally an Australian term meaning to carry one's swag (bundle).

Frequently asked questions

What does 'hump' mean in the military?
To march a long distance carrying a heavy pack, or the forced march itself.
Where does the military sense of 'hump' come from?
It traces to Australian slang for carrying one's swag (bundle of belongings), later adopted by US forces.
How is 'hump' used in a sentence?
Usually about a grueling march, e.g. 'We humped twelve miles with full packs.'
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Slang definitions: FreeDict original editorial.