The Fascinating World of Umbrella Collectors & Collective Nouns
Have you ever wondered what a group of umbrellas is called? Or if there’s a name for those of us who can’t resist collecting beautiful umbrellas?
The Collective Nouns for Umbrellas
A group of umbrellas is most commonly called a phalanx of umbrellas, a term that evokes strength and unity—much like a cluster of umbrellas shielding people from the elements. But did you know there are other delightful collective nouns for umbrellas? You could also call them:
- A spawn of umbrellas: Generally used in reference to a sudden appearance or proliferation of umbrellas, such as after unexpected rain or a promotional giveaway
- A shelter of umbrellas: Generally used to describe a group of umbrellas providing collective cover, such as people huddling under umbrellas at an outdoor event during a storm or in the heat
- A poke of umbrella: Generally used in reference to a bundle of umbrellas being carried or stored together in a way that the pointed tips are noticeable or protruding
- A bumbershoot of umbrellas: Generally used in a whimsical or playful context, often to describe a gathering of uniquely styled or vintage umbrellas
- A batch of umbrellas: Generally used in reference to a production run, wholesale purchase, or shipment of umbrellas in a commercial setting
- A stand of umbrellas: Generally used to describe a collection of umbrellas stored together in an upright position, such as in a shop display or an umbrella stand at an entrance
- A canopy of umbrellas: Generally used to refer to umbrellas arranged overhead, either naturally as a dense grouping in a crowd or decoratively as an artistic installation creating a colourful covering
- A shower of umbrellas: Generally used to describe the simultaneous opening of multiple umbrellas in response to sudden rainfall, creating a visually striking effect
- A cluster of umbrellas: Generally used to depict a tightly packed group of umbrellas, such as people gathered in close quarters with their umbrellas raised, often in a busy street or event
- A sea of umbrellas: Generally used to illustrate a vast expanse of opened umbrellas, often seen in city streets, festivals, or large public gatherings during rainfall
Each term paints a vivid picture, whether it's umbrellas springing up like mushrooms (spawn), offering refuge (shelter), or standing together in a container (poke).
What Do You Call an Umbrella Collector?
As an avid umbrella collector myself, I’ve often wondered if there’s an official term for people like me—those who adore umbrellas in all their shapes, sizes and designs. While there’s no universally recognised term, one of our long-time sales reps, who has been with us for decades, proudly calls himself an "Umbrellologist" which I think is creative, memorable and fun!
Another charming option we’ve come across is "Brolliologist"—a nod to the British slang brolly for umbrella. Whether you prefer Umbrellologist or Brolliologist, both capture the passion and enthusiasm we share for these practical yet stylish accessories.
For the dinosaur enthusiasts, I’ve coined "Parasolophus", a playful fusion of parasol and the (fittingly) duck-billed Parasaurolophus, for those who adore both umbrellas and prehistoric creatures.
And for the Dickens aficionados, I present "Gampwright", inspired by historical trades like wheelwright and shipwright, denoting a craftsman or collector. This term stems from the 19th-century slang Gamp, named after Mrs. Gamp in Charles Dickens' 1844 Novel: Martin Chuzzlewit, who famously carried a very large umbrella.
Melbourne: A Paradise for Umbrella Collectors
Living in Melbourne, Australia, a city infamous for experiencing four seasons in one day, my love for umbrellas has only grown. With weather that can shift from sunshine to rain in moments, I always have an umbrella (or three) ready to hand out to friends and family when they visit.
I'm lucky enough to work here at La Bella Wedding Umbrellas - where I'm surrounded by over 150 designs of umbrellas (plus, I definitely enjoy wandering about into the warehouse to see them all - I think I've got them almost completely mentally catalogued now!)
Whether you're a fellow Umbrellologist or just someone who enjoys a well-crafted umbrella, there’s no denying the charm of these everyday essentials. So next time you see a group of umbrellas standing proudly together, you’ll know exactly what to call them!
What about you? Do you have a favourite umbrella or a growing phalanx of them? Share your thoughts—we’d love to hear from fellow collectors!
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La Bella Wedding Umbrellas is here to make sure every bride, groom, and guest stays elegant and protected—whatever the weather.
Written by: Chel Dillon