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Chicle: meaning, definitions and examples

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chicle

 

[ ˈtʃɪkəl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

chewing gum

Chicle is a natural gum made from the sapodilla tree, native to Central America. Traditionally, it has been used as a base for chewing gum due to its chewy texture and pleasant taste. Its production has diminished with the rise of synthetic gums, but it is still valued for its natural properties and is often associated with artisanal gum brands. Chicle can also serve as a source of income for local communities that harvest it sustainably.

Synonyms

chewing gum, gum, natural gum.

Examples of usage

  • He popped a piece of chicle into his mouth.
  • Chicle has been used in making gum for centuries.
  • Many prefer natural chicle over synthetic alternatives.

Translations

Translations of the word "chicle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 goma de mascar

🇮🇳 चिकलेट

🇩🇪 Kaugummi

🇮🇩 permen karet

🇺🇦 жувальна гумка

🇵🇱 guma do żucia

🇯🇵 チューインガム

🇫🇷 chewing-gum

🇪🇸 chicle

🇹🇷 sakız

🇰🇷 껌

🇸🇦 علكة

🇨🇿 žvýkačka

🇸🇰 žuvačka

🇨🇳 口香糖

🇸🇮 žvečilni gumi

🇮🇸 tyggjó

🇰🇿 жұмсақ

🇬🇪 ჩიქლეტი

🇦🇿 şirinlik

🇲🇽 chicle

Etymology

The term 'chicle' comes from the Nahuatl word 'tzictli', which refers to the gum obtained from the sapodilla tree. This tree, known scientifically as Manilkara zapota, is native to Mesoamerican regions, particularly in Mexico and Central America. The indigenous people of these areas have been harvesting chicle for centuries, using it for both its flavor and its properties. In the late 19th century, chicle became popular in the United States as a base for chewing gum, especially with the introduction of commercial gum brands. However, by the mid-20th century, synthetic alternatives began to dominate the market, leading to a decline in chicle production. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in natural products, including chicle, as consumers shift towards more organic and environmentally friendly choices.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,028, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.