stump
stump Lexical Profile
stump Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The bottom part of a tree left projecting from the ground after most of the trunk has fallen or been cut down.
"After they cut down the diseased oak, all that remained in the front yard was a wide wooden stump."
A remaining part of an object, limb, or appendage that has been cut off, broken, or worn down.
"The architect sketched vigorously until his charcoal pencil was reduced to a tiny, unsharpenable stump."
American A place or occasion for public speaking, especially a campaign trail used by politicians seeking office.
"The candidate spent three grueling months on the stump, visiting rural communities to rally support for his platform."
• verb
To baffle, perplex, or completely confound someone, rendering them unable to answer a question or solve a problem.
"The final equation on the advanced calculus exam completely stumped the entire class."
American To travel through a district or region making political campaign speeches.
"The senator decided to stump across the key midwestern states during the weeks leading up to the primary election."
To walk heavily, stiffly, or clumsily.
"Exhausted and wearing heavy boots, he stumped up the wooden stairs to his room."
• Rhymes for stump
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Middle English 'stumpe', ultimately from Proto-Germanic '*stumpaz', meaning a mutilated piece or a blunt end.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.