Meaning & Definition of word "Gum"
to
Gum
/ɡʌm/
noun:
- 1. A sticky substance made from the sap of certain trees, used in various products or for chewing.
- Example: She chewed a piece of gum while waiting for her friend.
- 2. The soft tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth.
- Example: He had to see the dentist because his gums were bleeding.
- 3. A type of adhesive or sticky material.
- Example: The children used gum to stick the paper decorations to the wall.
verb:
- 1. To chew on gum or something similar.
- Example: He was gumming his food because he had lost his teeth.
Etymology
Middle English 'gumme', from Old French 'gomme', from Latin 'gummi', from Greek 'gomme'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
gum up the works:
to cause a failure in a system or process.
bite the gum:
to endure a difficulty or unpleasant situation.
Related Words
gumbo:
A type of stew or soup from Louisiana.
gummy:
Having a sticky or gelatinous texture.
Slang Meanings of gum
Meaning: To chew gum.
Example Sentence: Stop smacking your gum at the table!