Traditional
Still common
Definition
Sweater / pullover.
Example Sentence
"Better bring a jumper, it'll be cold tonight."
Where "Jumper" Comes From
Derives from an older English dialect word "jump," referring to a short, loose jacket, which evolved into "jumper" for a knitted pullover garment.
The term crossed over into common use across Britain, Australia, and New Zealand, while American English mostly settled on "sweater" instead.
How Aussies Actually Use It
Used exactly as "sweater" would be used elsewhere — "better bring a jumper, it'll be cold tonight" is standard advice ahead of a chilly evening.
It's also the standard term for a football team's playing shirt, so "swap jumpers" or "jumper number" has a distinct sporting meaning alongside the clothing sense.
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