Jam

/dʒæm/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A sweet spread made from fruit and sugar, often used on bread or toast.

I like to have strawberry jam on my toast in the morning.

A situation in which a large number of people or vehicles are unable to move or proceed, typically due to congestion.

We got stuck in a traffic jam on the way to the concert.

An informal gathering of musicians to play music together.

They often host a jam session at their house every Friday night.

verb

To pack or compress tightly into a space or container.

We had to jam all our belongings into the car for the move.

To become stuck or unable to move, often used in relation to machinery.

The printer jammed while I was trying to print my report.

To play or improvise music informally with others.

The band decided to jam together on stage for an extra song.

origin unknown, possibly from Middle English 'jamme' meaning to press together

jam session:

An informal meeting where musicians play together.

traffic jam:

A situation where vehicles are unable to move due to congestion.

jam-packed:

Completely filled or crowded.

To be in a difficult situation.

I'm in a jam; I forgot my homework.

To block or obstruct.

Someone jammed the door.