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Clump: meaning, definitions and examples

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clump

 

[klʌmp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in nature

A clump is a small group of trees or plants growing closely together.

Synonyms

bunch, cluster, thicket.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
clump

Used to describe a compact group of similar things, especially plants or trees. Often implies disorder or natural grouping.

  • There was a clump of trees at the edge of the field
  • She noticed a clump of mushrooms growing in the damp soil
cluster

Describes a grouping of items, often in close proximity, and commonly used in technical or scientific contexts, but also for describing groups of stars or fruits.

  • A cluster of stars was visible in the night sky
  • The scientist observed a cluster of cells under the microscope
bunch

Commonly used to describe a group of similar objects, often flexible items like flowers or grapes. It can also refer to a group of people. It is informal and casual.

  • She picked a bunch of flowers for the vase
  • A bunch of kids were playing in the park
thicket

Used to describe a dense group of bushes or small trees, often difficult to pass through. It has a more natural, wild connotation.

  • They had to navigate through the thicket to reach the clearing
  • The rabbit darted into the thicket to escape

Examples of usage

  • We spotted a clump of trees in the distance.
  • The birds were singing in the clump of bushes near the river.
Context #2 | Verb

related to movement

To clump means to move with a heavy sound, as when walking with heavy shoes.

Synonyms

plod, stomp, trudge.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
clump

Use 'clump' when describing objects that stick together in a messy or disorganized way or to describe a group of things or people that are closely together.

  • A clump of hair was left in the shower drain.
  • The children formed a clump around the teacher.
stomp

Use 'stomp' to describe heavy, forceful steps, usually expressing anger or frustration.

  • She stomped out of the room after the argument.
  • He stomped his foot in frustration.
trudge

Use 'trudge' to describe walking slowly and with heavy steps, typically due to exhaustion or harsh conditions.

  • They trudged through the deep snow, barely making progress.
  • After the long hike, they trudged back to their campsite.
plod

Use 'plod' to describe slow, steady, and laborious movement, often due to weariness or difficulty.

  • The farmer plodded through the muddy field.
  • After a long day at work, he plodded home wearily.

Examples of usage

  • He clumped down the stairs in his big boots.
  • The horse clumped along the path with its hooves hitting the ground rhythmically.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Old English 'clum', meaning a lump or mass.
  • It has roots in Middle Dutch 'clomp', which also means a lump or piece.
  • The modern sense of the word started to appear in English around the 16th century.

Science

  • In ecology, a 'clump' can refer to a collection of plants growing closely together, often due to shared environmental needs.
  • Geologists study clumps of minerals in rocks to understand the history of the Earth’s crust.
  • In biology, animal groups that form a clump can help protect against predators through collective vigilance.

Literature

  • In poetry, clumping images together creates vivid scenes that evoke strong emotions.
  • Authors often use clumps of dialogue to showcase the dynamics of relationships between characters.
  • In stories, a clump of objects can symbolize unity or community, reflecting the interconnectedness of characters.

Culture

  • In some cultures, clumping together is a symbol of friendship and support during difficult times.
  • Festivals often see people clumping in groups to celebrate, dance, or participate in communal activities.
  • Certain sports teams huddle together as a strategic 'clump' to discuss tactics before a game.

Psychology

  • The phenomenon of social clumping suggests that people tend to gather in groups for comfort and security.
  • Clumping when faced with a stressful situation can lead to positive reinforcement among peers.
  • Research shows that humans are more likely to approach others when they are part of a clump, as it signals safety in numbers.

Translations

Translations of the word "clump" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aglomerado

🇮🇳 गुच्छा

🇩🇪 Haufen

🇮🇩 kelompok

🇺🇦 група

🇵🇱 grupa

🇯🇵 塊 (かたまり)

🇫🇷 amas

🇪🇸 grupo

🇹🇷 küme

🇰🇷 덩어리

🇸🇦 كتلة

🇨🇿 shluk

🇸🇰 zhluk

🇨🇳 团块

🇸🇮 skupina

🇮🇸 hópur

🇰🇿 топ

🇬🇪 ჯგუფი

🇦🇿 qrup

🇲🇽 grupo

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,789, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.