What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lumper
Example
The lumper was responsible for unloading the crates of fruit from the truck. [lumper: noun]
Example
He worked as a lumper at the port, moving cargo from the ships to the warehouse. [lumper: noun]
longshoreman
Example
The longshoreman used the crane to lift the containers off the ship. [longshoreman: noun]
Example
He worked as a longshoreman at the port, loading and unloading cargo from the ships. [longshoreman: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Longshoreman is more commonly used than lumper in everyday language, especially in the United States. However, both terms are specific to the industry and may not be widely known outside of it.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lumper and longshoreman?
Both lumper and longshoreman are technical terms specific to the shipping and transportation industry, and are therefore more formal in nature. However, longshoreman may be slightly more formal due to its association with unionized labor and specialized training.