English Reference
Noun

lumps

n. plural-only
C1 Advanced US /ˈɫəmps/ UK /lˈʌmps/ lumps

n.punishment or criticism that you receive for something you did wrong. It is usually used when someone thinks you deserve the trouble you are in.

n.punishment, criticism, or physical blows received as a consequence of one's actions. Typically used in the plural within the idiomatic phrase 'take one's lumps'.


SIMPLE

He had to take his lumps after the project failed.

CONTEXTUAL

The politician had to take her lumps from the press after the scandal broke.

COMPLEX

While the young boxer showed great promise, he had to take his lumps in the early rounds before finding his rhythm and securing a victory.

Usage

Almost exclusively used in the plural form within the idiom 'take one's lumps'.

Lumps of the waxy substance were located on Egremont beach in Wirral after reports to Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team.

BBC News· 21 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated