The word "mump" is spelled with the letters m-u-m-p. It is pronounced as /mʌmp/. The IPA phonetic transcription shows that the "u" is pronounced as "uh" and the "m" and "p" are pronounced as expected. "Mump" is a colloquial British term that means a case of mumps, a viral infection that causes swelling of the salivary glands. However, it is also used in American English to refer to a sulky or bad-tempered mood, similar to the word "grump."
Mump is a colloquial term that can be used as a noun or a verb, primarily in British English dialects. As a noun, it refers to a minor illness characterized by swollen and painful glands, typically caused by a viral infection, specifically the mumps virus. The condition usually affects the salivary glands located near the ear, leading to swelling and tenderness in the jaw and neck area. Mumps typically results in flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, and fatigue. It is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact or respiratory droplets.
As a verb, mump is often used informally to describe the act of feigning illness or complaining incessantly about minor discomforts, in order to seek attention or gain sympathy. It can also refer to the act of sulking or being in a bad mood, often accompanied by moaning or grumbling. In this context, mump is similar to whining or sulking.
The term mump is derived from the Middle English word "mumpen," meaning to mutter or complain, which can be traced back to Old English. It is often used in informal or colloquial contexts and may vary in usage and meaning across different regions.
Overall, "mump" can refer to a viral illness characterized by swollen glands or be used as a verb to describe either the act of pretending to be ill or complaining excessively, or sulking and being in a bad mood.
To bite the lip like a rabbit; to move the lips while closed or almost closed; to make faces as if chewing or nibbling; to nibble; to talk with indistinctness, as if the lips were closed; to make mouths; to beg: to implore with a beggar's look and manner; to trick.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "mump" has a few different origins and uses, so let's explore them individually:
1. As a noun meaning "one of the cheeks or jaws". The etymology for this meaning is not entirely clear. It is believed to derive from the Old English word "mūth" meaning "mouth", which then gave rise to the Middle English word "mumpe" or "mump", referring to the space between the upper and lower jaws.
2. As a verb meaning "to mooch, beg, or sulk". The origin of this meaning comes from the 16th-century word "mumper", which referred to a beggar or someone who wandered from place to place seeking charity. This word likely originated from the Dutch word "mompelen", meaning "to mutter" or "to murmur".
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