Bumper Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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bumper
[ˈbʌm.pər ]
Definitions
automobile design
A bumper is a protective bar or panel on the front and rear of a vehicle designed to absorb the impact of a collision and minimize damage to the vehicle and its occupants. Additionally, bumpers often house components like lights and sensors.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He had to replace the rear bumper after the accident.
- The car's bumper saved it from major damage during the crash.
- She added a custom bumper to enhance the look of her truck.
celebration
In a colloquial sense, 'bumper' can refer to an event or occasion that is larger, more successful, or more enjoyable than usual. Often used to describe bumper crops or festivities.
Synonyms
abundant, bountiful, prosperous.
Examples of usage
- This year's harvest was a bumper crop due to the favorable weather.
- They celebrated with a bumper party for the anniversary.
- The festival was a bumper event, drawing in thousands of visitors.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Automotive History
- The first known use of metal bumpers on cars began in the early 1900s, primarily to prevent damage during collisions.
- In the 1950s, the introduction of chrome bumpers became popular, both for aesthetics and functionality.
Pop Culture
- In the world of car enthusiasts, 'bumper stickers' are a way for people to express their beliefs or share humor.
- The popular television show 'Top Gear' often features discussions about car safety, including the importance of bumpers.
Safety
- Modern bumpers are designed with crumple zones, which absorb energy in accidents to protect passengers.
- Regulations require bumpers to withstand a certain level of impact without significant damage to the vehicle.
Physics
- The design of bumpers reflects principles of physics, especially the laws of motion and energy absorption.
- Effective bumpers distribute force across a larger area to minimize damage during collisions.
Origin of 'bumper'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'bumper' comes from the mid-17th century, originally meaning 'to strike' or 'to bump against'.
- The term evolved in the 19th century to describe a protective feature on coaches and carriages.
The word 'bumper' originally comes from the late 17th century, derived from the noun 'bump' which means to hit or strike against something. The etymology can be traced back to the Middle English word 'bumpen', which means to knock or pound. The term has evolved over time, and by the early 20th century, it began to refer specifically to the protective bars on vehicles, solidifying its automotive meaning. By the 1920s, the use of bumpers on automobiles became standardized, and their design began incorporating styling features. The use of 'bumper' in agriculture, relating to large harvests, emerged later, emphasizing abundance, thus expanding the word's usage into different contexts.