Bummed

Bummed (adjective / slang)

(Often said as Bummed out)

Definition: Gutted, miffed, or just flat-out annoyed when things go tits up and ruin your mood.

Pronunciation: /bʌmd/ (rhymes with hummed)

Where It Comes From: Hippies in 1960s America used “bummer” whenever a drug trip went sour or something killed their vibe. Hollywood films, US sitcoms, and skate magazines brought the word over to Britain through the 80s and 90s. UK kids grabbed hold of it, softened it down, and started using it whenever plans went down the pan.

How People Actually Use It: Nobody says it after a genuine tragedy. It’s saved for the petty, annoying setbacks in life that make you sigh and kick the skirting board.

You’re bummed when the takeaway forgets your garlic dip, when you get to the station and see your train is cancelled, or when it starts pissing down just as you light the barbecue. It’s that exact feeling of being let down without wanting to make a massive drama out of it.

Examples in the Wild:

• “Proper bummed out that the gig got cancelled, had my tickets booked for months.”

  Translation: “I am thoroughly disappointed the concert isn’t happening.”

• “He was dead bummed when he dropped his kebab on the pavement.”

  Translation: “He was visibly upset about losing his late-night food.”

• “No point being bummed about the rain, let’s just go Spoons instead.”

  Translation: “Stop sulking over the bad weather and let’s head down the pub.”

Similar Slang: Gutted, Miffed, Choked, Pissed off, Down in the dumps, Sidelined