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What does ‘jumper’ mean?

Aussie slang explained in plain English, with examples you can listen to.

jumper

noun · neutral

A warm knitted top: a sweater or pullover.

How Aussies use it

  • Take a jumper, it gets cold at night.
  • I love your new jumper.

How to pronounce ‘jumper’

Say it like this: JUM-per

‘jumper’ in a conversation

Teacher: It's chilly today, put your jumper on.

Student: It's in my bag, I'll grab it.

Good to know

This is standard Australian English, not slang. Americans say 'sweater'.

A common mistake

In the US, a 'jumper' is a dress worn over a shirt. In Australia it's always a warm top.

Saying it more formally

In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use sweater instead.

Slang is great for chatting with friends and workmates, but keep it out of PTE essays and formal writing.

Quick check

What does ‘jumper’ mean?

  1. To arrive or turn up, usually in a relaxed way.
  2. A mosquito.
  3. A warm knitted top: a sweater or pullover.
Show the answer

C. A warm knitted top: a sweater or pullover.

Frequently asked questions

What does 'jumper' mean in Australia?

A warm knitted top: a sweater or pullover. This is standard Australian English, not slang. Americans say 'sweater'.

Can I say 'jumper' at work?

Yes. 'jumper' is fine in most workplaces, in conversation and casual messages. In formal emails, reports and English tests, use more standard English.

How do you pronounce 'jumper'?

Say it like this: JUM-per. Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.

More Aussie words

Test yourself with the slang quiz