a compact mass of a substance, especially one without a definite or regular shape, an area of swelling or soreness on the body, a person who is dull or heavy in manner or mind

lump sum, take one's lumps, lump in one's throat

Formal and Informal Expressions of lump

In different contexts, you can replace 'lump' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'mass, swelling' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'hunk, chunk' is a commonplace synonym.

lump: Explore its Definition & Usage

lump Definition

1a compact mass of a substance, especially one without a definite or regular shape
2an area of swelling or soreness on the body
3a person who is dull or heavy in manner or mind

Using lump: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "lump" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
There was a lump of clay on the table.
Example
He has a lump on his forehead from the fall.
Example
She's a bit of a lump, but she means well.

lump Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for lump

Antonyms for lump

Phrases with lump

lump sum
a single payment made at one time, rather than several smaller payments over a period of time
Example
The insurance company offered him a lump sum settlement for his injuries.
take one's lumps
to accept the unpleasant consequences of one's actions
Example
He knew he had to take his lumps for breaking the rules.
lump in one's throat
a feeling of tightness or emotion in one's throat, usually caused by sadness or strong feelings
Example
When she saw her daughter walk down the aisle, she felt a lump in her throat.

Origins of lump

from Middle English 'lumpe', probably related to Old Norse 'klumpa', meaning 'a heap'

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Summary: lump in Brief

The term 'lump' [lʌmp] refers to a compact mass of a substance, an area of swelling or soreness on the body, or a person who is dull or heavy in manner or mind. It extends into phrases like 'lump sum,' denoting a single payment, and 'take one's lumps,' meaning to accept the consequences of one's actions.