"Took one's lumps" is a phrase that means to endure the consequences of one's actions, often through criticism or punishment. In other words, it means to face up to the consequences of your actions, whether those consequences are physical or emotional. Some synonyms for "took one's lumps" include "faced the music," "paid the piper," and "grinned and bared it." All of these phrases suggest that someone has accepted responsibility for their actions and is willing to suffer the consequences, even if they are unpleasant. Whether you use "took one's lumps" or one of its many synonyms, the message is the same: you are willing to accept the consequences of your actions and move on.