Definition

1. Noun:

   • Dimple: A small, natural, permanent hollow or indentation in the flesh, typically on the cheek or chin, especially one that shows when a person smiles.

2. Adjective:

   • Slightly hollow / indented: Describing a surface that has a gentle, small, and often attractive depression.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • Cô bé có một cái lúm đồng tiền rất duyên. (The little girl has a very charming dimple.)
  • Khi cười, lúm trên má anh ấy xuất hiện. (When he smiles, the dimple on his cheek appears.)

• Adjective:

  • Má cô ấy hơi lúm. (Her cheeks are slightly dimpled.)
  • Chiếc bát bị lúm ở một bên. (The bowl is slightly indented on one side.)

Advanced Usage

• The word "lúm" is most commonly and naturally used in the fixed phrase "lúm đồng tiền" (literally "coin dimple"), which is the standard term for a cheek dimple. Using "lúm" alone often implies this common phrase.

Variants and Related Words

• Lúm đồng tiền (n): Dimple (specifically on the cheek). This is the primary and most idiomatic compound.
  • Nụ cười lúm đồng tiền của cô ấy rất đẹp. (Her dimpled smile is very beautiful.)

Synonyms

• Dimple: A small hollow in a cheek or chin.
• Hollow: A sunken area or depression.
• Indentation: A slight depression or dent in a surface.

Related Idioms

• Má lúm đồng tiền: This is the standard descriptive phrase, not strictly an idiom but a set noun phrase. It translates directly to "cheek with a coin dimple" and is the universal way to refer to dimples.
  • Ai cũng khen má lúm đồng tiền của em bé. (Everyone praises the baby's dimples.)