Pronunciation: [stˈʌmbə͡lz əpˌɒn] (IPA) 
The phrase "stumbles upon" is spelled as [ˈstʌmbəlz əˈpɑːn]. The letter "b" in "stumbles" is pronounced as [b], and the letter "p" in "upon" is pronounced as [p]. The letter "e" in "stumbles" is silent and the letter "o" in "upon" is pronounced as [ɑː]. The word "stumble" means to trip and lose balance while walking, and the phrase "stumbles upon" means to accidentally discover something while searching or exploring.
To stumble upon something means to unexpectedly or accidentally come across or discover it, often by chance or without prior intention. The phrase signifies a random encounter or finding that occurs by stumbling or tripping upon it figuratively, like a person stumbling upon an object while walking.
This expression is commonly used to describe a sudden discovery or encountering of something unforeseen or unplanned. It suggests that the person was not actively seeking the object or information but rather stumbled upon it accidentally. For instance, someone might stumble upon an old photograph while cleaning a cupboard, or stumble upon a hidden treasure while exploring an uncharted area.
The term is not limited to physical objects but can also apply to situations, opportunities, or information. It implies that the discovery was unexpected, surprising, or possibly even serendipitous. In a figurative sense, it can depict finding a solution or a breakthrough in a problem or stumbling upon a brilliant idea.
Overall, "stumbles upon" refers to the act of unintentionally discovering or encountering something out of the blue, often resulting in a pleasant surprise or unexpected outcome.
The word "stumbles upon" is a combination of two words: "stumble" and "upon".
1. Stumble: The word "stumble" originated from the Old English word "stumian", which meant "to trip or stagger". It evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "stumon" and has cognates in various Germanic languages. The concept of stumbling implies a sudden and unintentional loss of balance or coordination.
2. Upon: The word "upon" came from the Middle English word "uppon", which derived from the Old English word "uppan". It ultimately originates from the Proto-Germanic word "uppina", meaning "on" or "over". "Upon" is used to indicate a spatial or figurative position, often suggesting a sense of being in contact with or having come across something.
