bumper
UK: ˈbʌmpə | US: ˈbʌmpər
n. 1. A horizontal bar attached to the front or rear of a vehicle to reduce damage in collisions.
n. 2. Something unusually large or abundant (e.g., "a bumper crop").
adj. Exceptionally large or plentiful.
The word "bumper" originates from the verb "bump" (mid-16th c., imitative of the sound of a blow) combined with the agentive suffix "-er." Initially, it referred to anything that "bumps" or protrudes, later specializing to describe protective bars on vehicles (early 19th c.). The sense of "abundance" (e.g., "bumper crop") emerged metaphorically in the 18th century, implying something so large it "bumps" against limits.
The car's bumper was dented in the minor collision.
Farmers celebrated a bumper harvest this year.
She poured a bumper glass of wine for the guest.
The bumper sticker displayed a witty slogan.
The festival attracted a bumper crowd.