A Stumer is an expression used commonly to denote a shell that had failed to explode. Also used as a question, "Is that a stumer?" of German gas-shells, it being a common enemy practice to include gas shells in a salvo. The others burst on impact and whether those apparently "dud" were really so, or gas shells about to open and let out the deadly gas, was the question. Used also to describe a "rotter" - someone that is no good or incompetent; any kind of failure.[1]
References / notes
- ↑ Edward Fraser and John Gibbons (1925). Soldier and Sailor Words and Phrases. Routledge, London p.273.
Glossary of words and phrases
The above term is listed in our glossary of words and phrases of the Armed Forces of Great Britain during the Great War. Included are trench slang, service terms, expressions in everyday use, nicknames, the titles and origins of British and Commonwealth Regiments, and warfare in general. These words and phrases are contemporary to the war, which is reflected in the language used. They have been transcribed from three primary sources (see Contents). Feel free to expand upon and improve this content.
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