Cram: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in informal situations where someone is preparing for an exam or test at the last moment, often emphasizing the stress and rush involved.

• I had to cram for my history test last night.
• He's cramming all night to pass the final exam.

Used in more formal or neutral contexts, indicating that someone is putting a lot of effort and time into studying, without the connotation of rushing or last-minute preparation.

• She needs to study intensively for her medical exams.
• He decided to study intensively to understand the subject thoroughly.

A British informal term often used in casual conversations, suggesting focused and detailed studying, usually for an upcoming test or exam.

• I need to swot up on my French before going to Paris.
• She's swotting up for her chemistry finals.

This can also be used to describe forcing things into a space roughly or uncomfortably.

• They crammed the closet with old furniture

This is used when someone is crushing something into a soft, pulpy state, often used for food.

• She mashed the potatoes until they were smooth
• He mashed the bananas for the baby food

This is used when referring to a thick, soft, moist substance produced by grinding or crushing various materials, often used in a culinary or creative context.

• She spread the tomato paste on the pizza dough
• He made a paste out of flour and water for the art project