bummer
1 Americannoun
noun
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the unpleasant aftermath of taking narcotic drugs, especially frightening hallucinations or unpleasant physical sensations.
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any unpleasant or disappointing experience.
That concert was a real bummer.
interjection
noun
-
an unpleasant or disappointing experience
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a vagrant or idler
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an adverse reaction to a drug, characterized by panic or fear
Etymology
Origin of bummer1
An Americanism first recorded in 1850–55; probably from German Bummler, derivative with -er noun suffix ( see -er 1) of bummeln “to take a stroll, dawdle, loiter” (expressive verb of uncertain origin)
Origin of bummer2
Explanation
A bummer is a huge disappointment. It's a bummer when you try out for a big role in a play and don't end up getting it. The word bummer is a very casual way to describe or make note of a frustrating experience. You can say, "It was such a bummer when we missed the train," or respond to bad news by saying, "Bummer!" The current meaning is from 1960s slang, but in the 1880s a bummer was a "loafer" or "idle person," probably from the German slang word bummler, "loafer."
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Still, when J.D. finds out Turk’s interns secretly refer to him as Dr. Bummer, he realizes his Big Dog may be burying some of his pain.
From Salon • Feb. 26, 2026
Bummer - A person in a position of authority.
From BBC • Jun. 25, 2025
Bummer quickly retrieved the ball again, and turned toward home with Freeman taking a wide turn around third.
From Los Angeles Times • May 4, 2025
Texas extended its lead to 5-2 in the seventh on Heim’s two-run, two-out single against Aaron Bummer.
From Washington Times • Jun. 20, 2023
“Yeah. Bummer, right? Now you can’t act like a crazy person. I guess your whole day is shot.”
From "Liar & Spy" by Rebecca Stead
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
