bumper

word

/ˈbəmpɝ/
BUH-mpur
/bˈʌmpɐ/
BUH-mpuh

Definition

The protective bar on the front or back of a car. Also used informally to describe something unusually large or abundant, as in 'a bumper crop.'

Usage & Nuances

In cars, always 'car bumper' or 'front/rear bumper.' Informal: 'bumper crop' (large harvest), 'bumper year.' Rare in everyday spoken English except for cars or in set phrases. Not to be confused with 'bumper' as in 'bumper sticker.'

Example Sentences

After the little fender-bender, the only thing scratched was the bumper.

natural

Farmers are celebrating a bumper crop this year.

natural

He bought a used car, and the bumper was already a bit loose.

natural

The bumper helps protect the car from damage.

basic

The car's front bumper was damaged in the accident.

basic

He put a sticker on the back bumper.

basic