bumpy

Everyday

1. Bumpy describes a surface that is not smooth but has lumps and holes. tree →
2. A bumpy ride or flight is one where you are shaken up and down. tree →
3. Bumpy can mean full of problems, as in «a bumpy start». tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life: bumpy roads, bumpy paths, a bumpy plane ride in strong wind. In science (friction) bumpy surfaces have more friction than smooth ones, so toy cars slow down faster on them. In stories and life: «a bumpy start» or «a bumpy road ahead» means things will be hard.

Examples

• The road to the farm is very bumpy. tree →
• The plane ride got bumpy over the mountains. tree →
• A toad has bumpy skin. tree →
• The toy car went slower on the bumpy carpet. tree →
• Our new class had a bumpy start, but now we all get on. tree →
• Hold on tight, it's going to be bumpy! tree →
• He learned to jump by chasing hares in a bumpy field. tree →

Note

Comparative: bumpier, bumpiest (y → i). From «bump». Opposite: smooth, flat, even. In science, rough or bumpy surfaces mean more friction.