LUMME Meaning and
Definition
-
"Lumme" is an exclamation primarily used in British English as an informal expression of surprise, shock, or excitement. It is often employed to convey amazement or disbelief about something unexpected or extraordinary. The term is considered colloquial and has a somewhat old-fashioned or quaint connotation.
Derived from the phrase "Lord love me," "lumme" functions as a shortening and alteration of the original expression. It can be seen as a mild expletive that is used in place of stronger, more vulgar words, displaying a sense of politeness or restraint. The word is frequently used in humorous or light-hearted contexts to convey a sense of astonishment and can often be found in comedic or fictional dialogue.
The usage of "lumme" is commonly associated with British literature, particularly works from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, when it was more prevalent. It is also frequently used in British comedy sketches and sitcoms, contributing to its enduring popularity in certain cultural contexts.
Overall, "lumme" is an expressive interjection that captures the element of surprise, wonder, or disbelief in a light-hearted and informal manner, adding variety and character to colloquial British English discourse.
Etymology of LUMME
The word "lumme" is a colloquial contraction of the phrase "Lord love me" or "love me", commonly used in British English dialects. It originated as a minced oath, a way of avoiding explicit or potentially offensive language by substituting words that sound similar but have different meanings. In this case, "lumme" served as a substitute for "Lord" or "God", often used to express surprise or strong emotion. The term dates back to the 17th century and has since become part of regional dialects and British slang.
