bummer

¹

[ buhm-er ]

noun

, Slang.

1. a person who bums off others.

bummer

²

[ buhm-er ]

noun

1. the unpleasant aftermath of taking narcotic drugs, especially frightening hallucinations or unpleasant physical sensations.
2. any unpleasant or disappointing experience:

   That concert was a real bummer.

interjection

1. (used to express disappointment, frustration, or the like):

   Looks like we're having a test tomorrow—bummer!

bummer

/ ˈbʌmə /

noun

1. an unpleasant or disappointing experience
2. a vagrant or idler
3. an adverse reaction to a drug, characterized by panic or fear

Word History and Origins

Origin of bummer¹

An Americanism first recorded in 1850–55; probably from German Bummler, derivative with -er noun suffix ( -er ¹ ) of bummeln “to take a stroll, dawdle, loiter” (expressive verb of uncertain origin)

Origin of bummer²

1965–70; apparently bum ¹ (adj. sense) + -er ¹

Example Sentences

By the measure of the Greeks, the song “Ironic” is a technical failure because it serves bummers in lieu of true opposites.

From Salon

It’s a bummer, because the ArcLight in Hollywood was my church.

From Los Angeles Times

“The airplane seat — that’s a bummer for the person who sits there next,” she said in the follow-up video.

From Los Angeles Times

They've also undeniably been a spectacular bummer, on a macro and micro scale.

From Salon

“But at the same time, it’s a bummer because if we do win, he won’t be here to see it.”

From Los Angeles Times