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Chum Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘ซ
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chum

[tสƒสŒm ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

friendship

A chum is an informal term for a close friend or companion. The word suggests camaraderie and often conveys a sense of friendliness and warmth.

Synonyms

buddy, friend, mate, pal.

Examples of usage

  • I've known him since childhood; he's my best chum.
  • We spent the weekend hanging out with our chums.
  • She invited her chums over for a movie night.
  • My chums and I are planning a trip together.
Context #2 | Noun

bait

Chum can also refer to chopped fish or seafood used as bait when fishing. Anglers often use it to attract fish to their fishing area.

Synonyms

bait, lure.

Examples of usage

  • The fisherman spread chum in the water to attract the fish.
  • Using chum is a common technique for catching larger species.
  • He prepared the chum before heading out on the boat.
  • Chum is known to draw in predators like sharks.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • 'Chum' has appeared in various movies and TV shows, often depicting camaraderie among friends, like in the series 'Family Guy' with the character Quagmire referring to his friend as 'chum.'
  • In cartoons, 'chum' is often used in lighthearted contexts when characters interact with their friends.
  • Popular characters in childrenโ€™s cartoons frequently use 'chum' to refer to their sidekicks, solidifying its friendly connotation.

Science

  • In marine biology, 'chum' also refers to bait made from fish parts used to attract fish, linking it to the idea of companionship in the food chain.
  • The process of creating chum can involve mixing fish pieces with water, symbolizing the bond formed among organisms in an ecosystem.
  • This term highlights how companionship extends beyond just humans to include relationships in nature.

Psychology

  • Friendship, or having a 'chum,' is shown to improve mental health, providing emotional support and reducing stress.
  • The use of 'chum' in friendship reflects social bonding, which is crucial for human development and well-being.
  • Studies suggest that having close friends can lead to higher levels of happiness and overall satisfaction in life.

Origin of 'chum'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'chum' comes from a 19th-century slang term that meant 'chambermate,' referring to someone you shared a room with.
  • Initially, it was often used in boarding schools to describe a close companion or roommate.
  • Over time, 'chum' evolved to mean any good friend, not just someone you share living space with.

The word 'chum' originates from the late 19th century, where it was derived from the dialect word 'chumm' or 'chum,' meaning 'a partner or companion'. It has roots in the Old English term 'cฤ“om', meaning 'the one who shares'. The application of the term to denote a close friend gives it a sense of affection and loyalty. Over time, the use of 'chum' expanded to include not only a close friend but also a term of camaraderie in various social contexts. By the 20th century, 'chum' had become widely recognized in both British and American English to convey a friendly relationship among peers.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,011, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.