sumpsimus

[ suhmp-suh-muhs ]

noun

, plural sump·si·mus·es

1. adherence to or persistence in using a strictly correct term, holding to a precise practice, etc., as a rejection of an erroneous but more common form ( mumpsimus ).
2. a person who is obstinate or zealous about such strict correctness ( mumpsimus ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of sumpsimus¹

First recorded in 1540–50; mumpsimus

Example Sentences

We are not going to change our old 'mumpsimus' for anybody's new 'sumpsimus.'

From Project Gutenberg

If men prefer their “mumpsimus” to our “sumpsimus,” let them by all means have it: but pray let them keep their rubbish to themselves,—and at least leave our Saviour's words alone.

From Project Gutenberg

On being remonstrated with, he retorted that “He would not leave his old mumpsimus for their new sumpsimus.”

From Project Gutenberg

And now let all defenders of present institutions, however bad they may be—let all violent supporters of their old mumpsimus against any new sumpsimus whatever, listen to a conversation among some undergraduates.

From Project Gutenberg

Such a deliberate preference of “mumpsimus” to “sumpsimus” is by no means calculated to conciliate favour, or even to win respect.

From Project Gutenberg