Bummer - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

informal expression

The term 'bummer' is often used to describe an unfortunate situation or disappointment. It conveys a sense of sympathy or commiseration when something doesn't go as planned. People may use it to refer to a minor setback or an unpleasant experience, often in a casual or light-hearted manner. It is commonly utilized in conversational English, reflecting a relatable sentiment.

Synonyms

disappointment, downer, drag, letdown, misfortune.

Examples of usage

I lost my wallet, what a bummer!
It’s a bummer that the concert was canceled.
Getting rained out at the picnic was such a bummer.
She said she couldn’t come to the party—total bummer.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

'Bummer' became popular in the counterculture of the 1960s, often used to express disappointment in cultural events or social issues.
The term is frequently used in song lyrics and movies to convey a lighthearted sense of defeat or sadness.
In skateboarding culture, 'bummer' often refers specifically to a bad fall or disappointing trick attempt.

Psychology

Experiencing 'bummer' moments can trigger feelings of sadness which, while unpleasant, are a normal part of emotional life.
Psychologically, expressing disappointment can lead to better coping strategies as it acknowledges feelings instead of suppressing them.
Cognitive behavioral therapy often addresses how we frame disappointments, encouraging a re-evaluation of what a 'bummer' truly means.

Literature

'Bummer' has appeared in various literary works, often highlighting characters’ struggles with disappointment or failed plans.
Authors use the term to create relatable scenarios that resonate with readers, demonstrating the universal experience of feeling let down.
Notable works in the late 20th century capture the ethos of youth culture, using 'bummer' to reflect the generational disillusionment.

Origin of 'bummer'

Main points about word origin

The word 'bummer' likely originated in the U.S. around the late 19th century, derived from 'bum', which referred to a scoundrel or vagabond.
Originally, it was slang for a person who was lazy or lived off others, evolving to describe negative situations.
The phrase 'bummer deal' started to appear in the 1940s, reflecting a feeling of being let down.

The word 'bummer' originated in the early 20th century in American slang. Its earliest recorded use dates back to around the 1920s, where it was believed to be an alteration of the term 'bum', which itself refers to someone who is lazy or a drifter. Over time, 'bum' evolved to represent someone who is idle and perhaps causing trouble or being a nuisance. The derivation likely comes from the phrase 'bum rap', which means an unfair accusation or bad luck. 'Bummer' has since evolved into a more general expression of sympathy regarding unfortunate events. It gained popularity among the counterculture movements in the 1960s and 70s, fitting seamlessly into the vernacular of those expressing dissatisfaction or misfortune. As a result, 'bummer' has been integrated into casual language, making it a recognizable and relatable term for expressing disappointment.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,209, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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37206 merchandised
37207 moroseness
37208 protracting
37209 bummer
37210 viscerally
37211 doddering
37212 buoyantly
...

Bummer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations