Bumkin

/ˈbʌmpkɪn/ noun

Definition

A variant spelling of bumpkin; a person from the country or rural areas, often portrayed as unsophisticated or simple.

Etymology

Variant of 'bumpkin,' which itself derives from Dutch 'bommeken' (little barrel or tree stump), suggesting a person who is awkward or ungainly like a tree stump.

Kelly Says

The Dutch root 'bommeken' (little barrel) is delightfully specific—it suggests the Dutch saw country people as being shaped like barrels, stocky and awkward, which spread into English mockery of rural folk.

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