pump knot

In Appalachian speech, a "pump knot" is a raised bump or swelling, usually from getting hit hard on the head.

#SouthernWords #Appalachia

Hillbilly Dude Says...

I've heard 'pump knot' all my life, and still do.

Pronunciation

[PUMP-not]

Meaning & Usage

- Raised bump from an injury (noun)

Elmer:

An' I reckon somebody'll leave here with a pump knot on their head.

Estel:

Hope it ain’t me.

other spellings: pump-knot, pumpknot, and goose egg

★ If you hear someone threaten a "pump knot," they probably mean business - and you might want to step back. ★

Origin

Likely comes from the resemblance of a swelling to the rounded knobs on an old-fashioned water pump handle. The term "knot" for a lump or bump dates back centuries in English.

Notes

"Pump knot" is most often used in playful or exaggerated threats, but it can describe any noticeable swelling on the head. "Goose egg" is a similar term used elsewhere.

Kin Topics

Appalachia

Kin Words, Stories and More

Common Questions

Is a "pump knot" dangerous?

Usually it’s just a bruise and swelling, though any hard head injury should be checked out.

Does "pump knot" mean the same as "goose egg"?

Yes - both describe a raised bump on the head.

Is "pump knot" still common?

It’s heard less often among younger speakers, but still shows up in rural speech and storytelling.