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Bumptiously: meaning, definitions and examples

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bumptiously

 

[ bʌmpˈtΚƒΚŠsli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

attitude manner

Bumptiously refers to behaving in a self-assertive and arrogant manner. Someone who acts bumptiously tends to display a loud, confident attitude that may come off as brash or obnoxious. This word often describes a sort of behavior that lacks subtlety and shows an overwhelming sense of self-importance. Such a demeanor can be off-putting and may alienate others in social interactions.

Synonyms

arrogantly, boldly, brashly

Examples of usage

  • He entered the room bumptiously, demanding attention.
  • She spoke bumptiously, dismissing anyone with a different opinion.
  • The politician's bumptiously confident speech irritated many listeners.

Etymology

The word 'bumptious' originates in the early 19th century, deriving from the combination of the word 'bump' and the suffix '-tious.' 'Bump' has various meanings related to impact or a protuberance, often implying a sudden movement or jolt. The suffix '-tious' is used to form adjectives indicating a state or quality, thus implying a characteristic of being boisterous or presumptuous. The term reflects a shift in social behavior and attitudes, highlighting the emergence of assertive personalities that began to gain prominence in society. Its use has evolved, maintaining a sense of arrogance or self-importance associated with those who display bumptious traits. Over the years, 'bumptious' has been employed in literature and conversation, often to critique or mock individuals who exhibit excessive bravado.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,253, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.