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stump
The word carries a heavy sense of obstruction or sudden stoppage. Whether it is a physical piece of wood blocking a path or a difficult question blocking a conversation, the core image is a dead end that prevents further progress. In political contexts, the term evokes the historical image of speakers standing on tree stumps to address crowds in rural areas. This gives the word a gritty, grassroots feeling of campaigning and hard work, contrasting with the polished atmosphere of modern televised debates.
Countable when referring to individual remnants of trees or limbs. Uncountable when referring to the act of political campaigning (stumping).
Meanings
The bottom part of a tree remaining in the ground after the trunk has been cut or fallen.
"He tripped over an old oak stump in the woods."
The part of a limb remaining after amputation.
"The veteran had a prosthetic leg attached to his stump."