informal3K

UK//bʌm//US//bʌm//

Meaning of Bum

A person who avoids work and relies on others for support.

In simple words: Someone who doesn't work and lives off others.

Bum in a sentence

  • He's such a bum; he never wants to get a job.
  • I can't believe he bums around all day instead of helping out.
  • She always calls him a bum for living off his parents.
  • Don't be a bum! Get up and do something productive.
  • The park was full of bums, just sitting around.

How to use Bum

Typically used in informal contexts to describe a lazy person. It can be derogatory, so be cautious of the tone.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'bum' as someone who 'bum' off others for support.

Related words

Collocations with Bum

  • lazy bum
  • homeless bum
  • bum around
  • shiftless bum
  • freeloading bum

Synonyms for Bum

  • loafer
  • idler
  • slacker
  • freeloader
  • drifter

Opposites of Bum

Common mistakes with Bum

  • Confused with 'bum' as an informal term for buttocks.
  • Using it in formal conversations.
  • Misunderstanding its offensive connotation.

Bum appears in

Bum in other languages

More words like Bum

People also search for

  • Bum meaning
  • meaning of Bum
  • Bum definition
  • define Bum
  • what does Bum mean
  • Bum means
  • how to use Bum

Frequently asked questions about Bum

What does Bum mean?

Someone who doesn't work and lives off others.

What is the definition of Bum?

A person who avoids work and relies on others for support.

How do you use Bum in a sentence?

He's such a bum; he never wants to get a job.

Can you give another example of Bum?

I can't believe he bums around all day instead of helping out.

What are synonyms for Bum?

Common alternatives include loafer, idler, slacker, freeloader, drifter.

What is the opposite of Bum?

Opposite meanings include aide, helper.

What words go with Bum?

It commonly pairs with lazy bum, homeless bum, bum around, shiftless bum, freeloading bum.

What are common mistakes when using Bum?

Confused with 'bum' as an informal term for buttocks. Using it in formal conversations. Misunderstanding its offensive connotation.

How do you pronounce Bum?

US: //bʌm//, UK: //bʌm//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Bum formal or informal?

"Bum" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use Bum?

Typically used in informal contexts to describe a lazy person. It can be derogatory, so be cautious of the tone.