Pronunciation: [dˈʌmdəmz] (IPA) 
Dumdums is a word that is commonly misspelled due to its unusual pronunciation. The correct spelling of dumdums is D-U-M-D-U-M-S, which is pronounced as /dʌm.dʌmz/. It is a noun that refers to a type of lollipop that is popular among children. The spelling of the word is easy to remember once you understand the phonetic transcription. Each syllable consists of a short sound of the vowel "uh" followed by the consonant "m."
Dumdums, also spelled as "dum-dums," can refer to different meanings depending on the context. Primarily, it is a slang term that can be used to describe a foolish or unintelligent person. In this sense, it is often used in a derogatory manner to criticize someone's lack of intelligence or common sense. For example, "He is always making silly mistakes. What a dumdum!"
However, dumdums can also refer to a specific type of bullet or ammunition. Originally, it was the brand name for a hollow-point bullet developed by the British firm Dum Dum Arsenal in the late 19th century. These bullets were designed to expand upon impact, causing greater damage to the target. Over time, the term "dumdum" became a generic term for any expanding bullet.
The usage of dumdums in warfare has been restricted under the Hague Convention due to their excessive damage and inhumane nature. The prohibition on using dumdum bullets is based on the principle of minimizing unnecessary suffering during armed conflicts.
Outside of these primary definitions, dumdums may also be used as a colloquial term for lollipops or sweets in some regions, particularly in the United Kingdom and certain parts of the United States. This usage stems from the brand name of a popular lollipop brand called "Dum Dum Pops," known for its assortment of flavors and colorful wrappers.
The word "dumdums" has its etymology rooted in the name of a specific type of bullet. Dumdum bullets, also known as hollow-point bullets, were originally developed in the late 19th century at the arsenal in Dum Dum, near Calcutta, India. These bullets were designed to expand upon impact, causing more significant injury to the target. The term "dumdums" became associated with these bullets and later evolved to refer to any soft-nosed or expanding bullet. Over time, the word also took on broader colloquial usage to describe something or someone as stupid or unintelligent, unrelated to its original ammunition meaning.
