Pronunciation: [bˈiːt͡ʃ bˈʌm] (IPA) 
The term "beach bum" is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /biːtʃ bʌm/. The word "beach" is pronounced with a long "e" sound (/i:/) followed by a voiceless "tʃ" sound for the "ch" combination. "Bum" is pronounced with a short "u" sound (/ʌ/) and ends with a voiced "m" sound. This phrase describes someone who spends a lot of time at the beach, usually relaxing or participating in leisurely activities.
A beach bum is a colloquial term used to describe an individual who frequents or spends a significant amount of time at the beach, often adopting a laid-back and carefree lifestyle. The term is commonly associated with a relaxed, easygoing demeanor and a preference for enjoying the beach and its surroundings, rather than engaging in conventional work or responsibilities.
A beach bum typically embodies an attitude of leisure, prioritizing the pursuit of pleasure, relaxation, and the enjoyment of nature. They may be commonly seen engaging in various activities such as sunbathing, swimming, surfing, beach volleyball, or simply strolling along the shore. The beach bum lifestyle is often associated with warm coastal regions characterized by picturesque sandy beaches and a temperate climate.
The term "beach bum" can also refer to an individual who lives near the beach or has chosen to reside within the coastal area permanently. Such individuals often have a deep connection with the serene ambiance and soothing environment of the beach, and they may actively seek out opportunities to immerse themselves in its natural beauty on a daily basis.
While the term "beach bum" can carry a slightly negative connotation of laziness or a lack of ambition, it is typically used in a lighthearted and affectionate manner, celebrating a person's choice to embrace a more relaxed and carefree lifestyle often associated with beach living.
The term "beach bum" originated in the United States, specifically in the 1960s during the counterculture movement and the rise of surf culture in California. It combines "beach", referring to a sandy coastal area, with "bum", which is slang for a person who leads a carefree or idle lifestyle.
The word "beach" can be traced back to the Old English word "bæce" and the Proto-Germanic word "bakiz", both of which meant "riverbank" or "shingle". Over time, the meaning evolved to refer specifically to the area where the land meets the ocean, covered in sand or pebbles.
On the other hand, the term "bum" has a longer history. It comes from the German word "bummler", meaning "loafer" or "wanderer".
