Stump: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to refer to the base part of a tree that remains after it has been felled. It can also mean being confused or puzzled by something.

• The children sat on the tree stump and had their lunch.
• The difficult question left him completely stumped.

Commonly used in horticulture to refer to the part of the plant, often a hardy root, onto which a graft is made. It is a very specific term and not often used in everyday language.

• The gardener chose a strong rootstock for grafting the new apple variety.
• The rootstock can influence the vigor and disease resistance of the plant.

Used when referring to a short remaining part of something that was longer, such as a pencil, a cigarette, or a ticket. It can also imply rough or unfinished ends.

• He threw the cigarette stub on the ground.
• She kept the ticket stub as a memento.

Appropriate when referring to a small remaining part or quantity of something, often after the greater part has been used, removed, or destroyed.

• The seamstress used remnants of fabric to create a beautiful quilt.
• A few remnants of the ancient civilization were discovered.

Use this word when someone or something is causing you to be puzzled or confused. It's often used when you can't think of a solution or answer.

• The tricky math problem really stumped me.
• The detective was stumped by the clues.

This term refers to a person or team that is expected to lose or is at a disadvantage but may inspire sympathy or support from others. It often has a positive connotation and can evoke feelings of hope or rooting for the less likely to win.

• Despite being the underdog, the small team managed to win the championship.
• People love a good underdog story where the unlikely hero wins.

This term is appropriate when referring to an attempt or effort that has a very low chance of success. It often carries a sense of taking a gamble or making a risky decision.

• Winning the lottery is a long shot, but I'll buy a ticket anyway.
• It's a long shot, but you might try asking your professor for an extension.

Use this word when describing someone who does not belong to a particular group, community, or team. It often emphasizes the idea of being excluded or different.

• As an outsider, she found it difficult to fit in at her new school.
• He's an outsider in the world of high fashion.

Used in the context of a political campaign when a candidate travels around to give speeches and meet voters.

• The candidate will stump in several states next week.
• She stumped for her party nominee across the country.

Typically used to describe organized efforts to achieve a particular goal, often political, marketing, or social.

• Their campaign to end homelessness has gained a lot of support.
• She launched a campaign for city council.

Appropriate when supporting a specific cause or idea, often involving arguments or public statements.

• He advocates for environmental protection.
• They are strong advocates of free speech.

Best suited for describing efforts to raise awareness or encourage the acceptance of a product, idea, or behavior.

• They are promoting a new product this summer.
• The government promotes healthy eating habits among children.