Pump — a kind of light shoe, originally often of delicate material and colour, kept on the foot by its close fit, and having no fastening; a slipper for indoor wear; hence (in 17-18th c.) applied to a more substantial low-heeled shoe of this character, esp. one worn where freedom of movement was required, as by dancers, couriers, acrobats, duellists, etc.; now spec., a light, low-heeled shoe, usually of patent leather and without fastening, worn with evening dress and for dancing, and regionally in North America.