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'.
He had to take his lumps after the project failed.
The politician had to take her lumps from the press after the scandal broke.
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'.