Definition

1. Adjective (Reduplicative expressive word):
   • Drooping low, hanging down heavily, or sagging deeply: Describes something that is bent, folded, or slouching downward in a pronounced, often untidy or weary manner. It emphasizes a state of being low, sunken, or collapsed.
   • Worn low over the head: Specifically used for hats or head coverings pulled down very low, covering much of the face or forehead.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Mái tóc ướt sũng nước sùm sụp trước trán. (The soaking wet hair hung low and heavy over his forehead.)
  • Cậu bé đội mũ lưỡi trai sùm sụp che cả mắt. (The boy wore his cap pulled down low, covering his eyes.)
  • Túp lều tranh cũ sùm sụp vì gió lớn. (The old thatched hut was sagging deeply from the strong wind.)

Advanced Usage

• This word is a reduplicative form (láy) of the root "sụp" (to collapse, to fall in). The reduplication intensifies the meaning, adding a descriptive, expressive quality about the shape or posture of something drooping.
• It often carries a connotation of being disheveled, weary, or battered by external forces like weather or fatigue.

Variants and Related Words

• Sụp (v): to collapse, to fall down, to cave in.
  • Căn nhà có nguy cơ sụp đổ. (The house is at risk of collapsing.)
• Xùm xụp (adj, variant spelling): an alternate spelling with the same meaning.
  • Mái tóc xùm xụp. (A shaggy, drooping head of hair.)

Synonyms

• Drooping: hanging down limply.
• Slouching: sitting, standing, or moving in a lazy, drooping way.
• Sagging: sinking downward under weight or pressure.

Related Idioms

• While "sùm sụp" itself is not typically part of a fixed idiom, it is used descriptively within phrases to paint a vivid picture of dejection or weariness.
  • Ngồi sùm sụp ở góc phòng. (To sit hunched and drooping in the corner of the room.)

1. xem sụp (láy)