bumper
n. countable B1 Intermediate US //ˈbəmpɝ// UK //bˈʌmpɐ// bumper
n. the metal or plastic bar on the front and back of a car. It protects the car if it hits something.
n. a horizontal bar fixed to the front or rear of a motor vehicle to reduce damage during a collision.
He scratched his front bumper while parking the car.
The car behind me tapped my rear bumper at the red light, but there was no visible damage.
Modern automotive design often integrates the bumper into the bodywork using lightweight plastics that absorb energy more efficiently than traditional steel bars.
From bump + -er.
Usage
Commonly used in the phrase 'bumper to bumper' to describe heavy traffic.