Black Stump

American  

noun

Australian.

1. an imaginary spot marking the supposed limits of civilization.

   beyond the Black Stump.

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black stump British  

noun

1. an imaginary marker of the extent of civilization (esp in the phrase beyond the black stump )

2. a long way off

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Etymology

Origin of Black Stump

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

The vineyards begin to look delightfully; for the thick black stump which was visible over the fields I have hitherto passed, is in these warm valleys covered already with masses of luxuriant vine leaves, and the hill sides are lovely with the light and tender verdure.

From Project Gutenberg

There is a big black stump there, with a plank across the top of it; we stand on that.

From Project Gutenberg

“Black stump, unfinished wood platform, and blue enamel basin.”

From Project Gutenberg

"Lenette," he had soon to say again, "please to amputate that stupid black stump there, on both our accounts."

From Project Gutenberg

It was not a hand: there were no fingers that held the blind, but a black stump pushed it aside; the mouldering outline and the clumsy movement as of a beast's paw had glowed into my senses before the darkling waves of terror had overwhelmed me as I went down quick into the pit.

From Project Gutenberg