bloomer
/'blu:mə/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A serious or embarrassing mistake; a blunder: A bloomer is a foolish or stupid error, often one that causes embarrassment or inconvenience. 2. A plant that flowers in a specific manner or time: A bloomer is a plant, typically a flower, known for its particular blooming habit (e.g., a "night bloomer"). 3. (Historical/British) A type of loose trousers for women: This is an archaic term for a style of women's clothing, specifically full, loose trousers gathered at the ankles, worn in the 19th century as part of a movement for more practical dress.
Usage Examples
- As a mistake:
- Forgetting the client's name during the presentation was a real bloomer.
- The goalkeeper made a terrible bloomer, letting the ball slip through his hands.
- As a type of plant:
- The evening primrose is a famous night bloomer.
- This rose is a repeat bloomer, producing flowers from spring until fall.
- (Historical):
- In the 1850s, Amelia Bloomer advocated for women to wear the garment that became known as "bloomers."
Advanced Usage
- "To drop a bloomer": This is a British English idiom meaning to make a silly or embarrassing mistake.
- The politician dropped a real bloomer during the live interview.
Variants and Related Words
- Blooming (adj): Used as an intensifier, often euphemistically (e.g., ).
- Bloomerang (n, trademark): A type of bread, specifically a crusty, oval-shaped loaf.
Synonyms
- Blunder: A careless or stupid mistake.
- Gaffe: An unintentional act or remark causing social embarrassment.
- Faux pas: A socially awkward or tactless act.
- Howler: A glaring and amusing mistake.
Phrasal Verbs
(This word does not commonly form phrasal verbs.)
Related Idioms
- Make a bloomer: Synonymous with "drop a bloomer," meaning to commit a foolish error.
- I think I've made a bit of a bloomer with the hotel booking dates.
Noun
- an embarrassing mistake
- a flower that blooms in a particular way
- a night bloomer