Meaning & Definition of word "Gum"
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!