Stump

A 'stump' is a remaining part of a tree trunk left embedded in the ground after the rest of the tree has been cut down. Figuratively, it can also refer to the base or remaining portion of anything that has been cut off or destroyed. Additionally, 'stump' can describe a difficulty or problem that someone struggles to solve. Furthermore, it can denote a part of something that is left or a reduced portion. In cricket, it refers to a wicket.

Stump meaning with examples

• The old oak tree was felled, leaving only a weathered stump in the garden. Its rough surface now serves as a perch for birds. Years of exposure have turned it into a home for various insects. He uses it to help his toddler take his first steps, holding onto the sturdy stump for stability. The gardener plans on eventually removing the unsightly stump to clear space for new plants.
• After the accident, only a stump remained of the once majestic statue. They're now struggling with the stump of the problem of how to revive the project. The pencil was sharpened so often it's now a small stump. The detective found himself stumped by the illogical sequence of events. Despite attempts to sell the company, a deal has been reached leaving the company with the stumps of its value.
• The politician often campaigned at various town squares standing on stumps. During the investigation, there were several pieces of evidence that stumped the investigators. Despite their research, scientists are stumped about the origins of the disease. The old chair was damaged in the fire, leaving only a charred stump of its wooden frame. She was stumped by the riddle.
• The accountant was completely stumped trying to balance the complex financial reports. The artist used the rough surface of the stump to create an interesting base for his sculpture. A few old stumps are now used as decorations. The cricketer aimed for the stumps, hoping to knock them over. His argument's stump was that he believed in the idea of fair play.
• The hiker stumbled upon a stump in the forest, overgrown with moss. The complex math problem stumped even the most gifted students. The sculptor chose the sturdy stump as a foundation for her masterpiece. The baseball player’s bat has been worn out into a stump. His inability to answer the questions stumped the interviewer.