bum
In Appalachian and Southern speech, "bum" is used as an informal adjective to describe something that’s hurt, damaged, or not working right - often a body part, but also tools, machines, or situations. But not to the extent of 'rurnt.'
I'll often refer to my right knee as my bum knee. Pronunciation
Meaning & Usage
- Injured or Not Working (adjective)
I been walkin’ funny ‘cause of this bum knee.That’s a bum starter on your truck - it won’t turn over.- Unsatisfactory or Unfair (adjective)
Origin
Likely borrowed from British slang, where "bum" has been used since the 19th century to mean "worthless" or "bad." In American English, especially in rural and Southern dialects, it shifted toward meaning "injured" or "broken."
Notes
In Southern and Appalachian speech, "bum" is common for minor injuries or broken equipment. It’s informal but not rude, and the meaning is understood from context.
Say It Like a Southerner
Say it short and flat - "bum" rhymes with "thumb" without the "th." In speech, it often comes before the noun it’s describing, like "bum knee" or "bum deal," with a casual, matter-of-fact tone.