Definition

Noun: - Someone or something of remarkable excellence: A "humdinger" is an informal term used to describe a person, thing, or event that is outstanding, extraordinary, or exceptionally impressive.

Usage

"Humdinger" is a singular, countable noun. It is used in informal contexts, often to express admiration or surprise at the quality or intensity of something. It can describe people, objects, or situations.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "a humdinger of a [noun]": This is the most common construction, used to emphasize the exceptional nature of the noun that follows.
  • The team faced a humdinger of a problem that took weeks to solve.
  • He's in a humdinger of a situation with all those deadlines.

Variants and Related Words

• There are no common variants (e.g., humdinging) for this noun. It is typically used only in its base form.

Synonyms

• Crackerjack: (informal) a person or thing of exceptional ability or quality.
• Doozy: (informal) something outstanding or unique of its kind.
• Beaut: (informal, chiefly Australian) an excellent or first-rate example of something.
• Knockout: (informal) an extremely impressive or attractive person or thing.

Antonyms

• Dud: (informal) a thing or person that fails to work properly or is otherwise disappointing or worthless.
• Lemon: (informal) a faulty or unsatisfactory item, especially a car.

Idioms and Phrases

• "That takes the cake" / "That beats all": These are idiomatic expressions of surprise or admiration that share a similar informal tone to "humdinger," though they are not direct synonyms.
  • You baked this yourself? Well, that takes the cake! (This is an impressive surprise.)
  • A talking dog? Now that beats all! (This is the most surprising/extraordinary thing.)

Noun

1. someone of remarkable excellence
   • a humdinger of a secretary