Dictionary

numps en · NOUN

Etymology

Uncertain, probably from Numps, obsolete diminutive of Humphrey. Compare also numb and numpty.

Meanings

1. (obsolete) A fool; a blockhead.
   • "You're a dizzard!" I retorted. "And a noodle and a jolt-head; you're a jobbernowl and a doodle, a maundering mooncalf and a blockheaded numps, a gaby and a loon; you're a Hatter!" I shrieked the last epithet. 1902, John Kendrick Bangs, chapter 10, in Olympian Nights:
   • These are villainous engines indeed; but take heart, Numps! here is not a word of the stocks; and you need never stand in awe of any more honourable correction. 1673, Samuel Parker, A Reproof to the Rehearsal Transprosed:

Forms