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Gum: meaning, definitions and examples

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gum

 

[ɡʌm ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

chewing

A sweetened and flavored preparation for chewing, usually made of chicle.

Synonyms

chewing gum.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
gum

This word can refer to several things like the soft tissue in the mouth around the teeth or a sticky substance. It's quite general and used in a broader context.

  • She had a piece of gum stuck to her shoe.
  • My gums are sore, I need to see a dentist.
chewing gum

This phrase specifically refers to the flavored, chewy substance people chew for pleasure or to freshen their breath. Typically used in daily conversation, especially when talking about habits or flavors.

  • Do you have any chewing gum? My breath smells bad.
  • He offered me a stick of chewing gum.

Examples of usage

  • I like to chew gum while studying for exams.
  • She blew a bubble with her gum.
Context #2 | Noun

medical

A firm rubbery substance used for making models of the teeth.

Synonyms

dental gum.

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Word Description / Examples
gum

This could also refer to a substance used to adhere things together, like glue. It can have negative implications if it's used to describe something being sticky and annoying.

  • He used some gum to fix the broken vase.
  • The gum on the envelope wouldn't seal properly.
dental gum

Specifically refers to the soft tissue in the mouth that surrounds the teeth. This term is often used in medical or dental contexts.

  • The dental gum needs proper care to prevent gum disease.
  • After the surgery, the dentist advised to be gentle with the dental gum.
  • Regular check-ups can help maintain healthy dental gums.

Examples of usage

  • The dentist used gum to make an impression of my teeth.
Context #3 | Noun

slang

A person's courage or boldness.

Synonyms

boldness, courage.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
courage

Appropriate for situations where someone exhibits strength in the face of fear, pain, or grief. It emphasizes inner strength and bravery during difficult times.

  • It took a lot of courage for him to speak out against injustice
  • She showed great courage by continuing her studies despite financial difficulties
boldness

Use when describing someone's willingness to take risks and act in a confident and daring way, often in situations that require bravery.

  • Her boldness in addressing the crowd was impressive
  • Mark's boldness allowed him to pitch his idea to the CEO directly

Examples of usage

  • He didn't have the gum to stand up to his boss.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'gum' comes from the Old English 'gumm', meaning resin or sticky substance.
  • In different languages, the word for gum has similar roots, linking the concept of chewing to a variety of cultures.

Health

  • Chewing gum can help improve focus and memory, as it might increase blood flow to the brain.
  • Some types of gum contain xylitol, which can be beneficial for dental health by reducing cavities.

Pop Culture

  • Bubble gum was famously featured in the children’s song 'I’m a Little Teapot,' showcasing its playful nature.
  • In movies, characters blowing giant bubbles with gum often adds a comedic or relatable element to their personality.

Science

  • Gum typically contains a synthetic base which allows it to maintain its chewy texture over time.
  • The process of making gum involves mixing sweeteners, flavorings, and the gum base under heat.

History

  • Ancient civilizations across the globe chewed natural gums, such as the trees' substance from the chicle tree in Central America.
  • In the 19th century, the first commercial chewing gum was manufactured in the United States, leading to the popularization of flavored varieties.

Translations

Translations of the word "gum" in other languages:

🇵🇹 goma de mascar

🇮🇳 गम

🇩🇪 Kaugummi

🇮🇩 permen karet

🇺🇦 жувальна гумка

🇵🇱 guma do żucia

🇯🇵 ガム

🇫🇷 chewing-gum

🇪🇸 chicle

🇹🇷 sakız

🇰🇷 껌

🇸🇦 علكة

🇨🇿 žvýkačka

🇸🇰 žuvačka

🇨🇳 口香糖

🇸🇮 žvečilni gumi

🇮🇸 tyggigúmmí

🇰🇿 сағыз

🇬🇪 საღეჭი რეზინა

🇦🇿 saqqız

🇲🇽 chicle

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,762 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.