mumpsimus
Pronunciation
/mˈʌmpsɪməs/
/mˈʌmpsɪməs/

Definition & Meaning of "mumpsimus"in English

Mumpsimus
01

a person who stubbornly clings to old errors or habits despite being corrected

mumpsimus definition and meaning
Disapproving
Old use

What is the origin of the term "mumpsimus" and how is it used?

"Mumpsimus" is an English literary term that dates back to the 16th century, originating from a story about a priest who insisted on saying "mumpsimus" instead of the correct Latin word "sumpsimus" during a church service. The term came to describe a person who stubbornly clings to old errors or habits despite being corrected. It is used in literary, academic, or rhetorical contexts, often humorously or critically, to highlight obstinacy or resistance to change. The term is mildly derogatory and intended to criticize; its harshness depends on context and tone.

Examples
The mumpsimus insisted on using outdated software everyone else abandoned.
02

a traditional notion that is obstinately held although it is unreasonable

Grammatical Information
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