bunch
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /bˈʌntʃ/
US
- /ˈbəntʃ/
Description
- group
- cluster
- collection
- gathering
- pack
A "bunch" isn't just for bananas! It describes a set or cluster of things—or people—brought together in a loose, informal way. You might see a bunch of grapes hanging from the vine, a bunch of keys jingling in someone's hand, or a bunch of friends heading to the movies. It sounds casual and substantial, but it usually isn't a precise count like one, two, or ten.
Sometimes the word is used playfully for people—like saying, "There's a whole bunch of trouble brewing!" or "A bunch of us are going to the concert." It's a warm, conversational way to speak about togetherness. While you usually wouldn't use it for an official board of directors or a formal association, it works perfectly for your favorite crew of people.
The word "bunch" refers to a group of things gathered together, usually with a casual and abundant feel rather than a strict count. While we commonly picture a bunch of flowers tied with a ribbon or bananas in a grocery store, its usage extends far beyond produce. You might find a bunch of old letters tucked away in an attic, a bunch of weeds growing in a garden, or a bunch of mismatched socks hiding under a bed.
"Bunch" can also describe people, usually in a casual and friendly tone. Saying "a bunch of friends" suggests a lively group enjoying each other's company. However, it's worth noting that using it for people can sound a little dismissive or overly general, as in, "That bunch is always getting into mischief!"
The word emerged in Middle English, where it originally meant a lump, hump, or swelling. Over time, the sense broadened from a physical bulge to include almost any collection of objects or people considered together.
Whether you're talking about keys, flowers, people, or forgotten treasures, "bunch" paints a picture of things coming together in a natural, loose, and often plentiful way. It's a word that feels comfortable and familiar—much like gathering with your favorite people.
Examples
- 1
Flowers
He arrived with a bunch of flowers for his grandmother.
- 2
Informal amount
I still have a bunch of emails to answer.
Usage
a bunch of
a lot of; informal
- 3
Group of people
There were a bunch of people waiting outside the theater.
- 4
Negative group
I don't want to spend another weekend with that bunch.
Usage
that bunch
that group of people; often informal and slightly negative
- 5
Crowding around
The kids all bunched around the window to watch the storm.
Pattern
bunch around + someone/something
move close together around that person or thing
- 6
Clothing folds
My sweater keeps bunching up under my coat.
Phrase
bunch up
gather into folds or into one small area
- 7
Sarcastic thanks
Thanks a bunch for leaving me at the station.
Usage
thanks a bunch is often sarcastic
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- bunchnounverb
Forms
- bunchespluralnounverb
- bunchedpast tenseverbnoun
- bunching-ing formverbnoun