Gum: meaning, definitions and examples

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gum

 

[ ɡʌm ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

chewing

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

Synonyms

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

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

Examples of usage

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

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

🇰🇷 

🇸🇦 علكة

🇨🇿 žvýkačka

🇸🇰 žuvačka

🇨🇳 口香糖

🇸🇮 žvečilni gumi

🇮🇸 tyggigúmmí

🇰🇿 сағыз

🇬🇪 საღეჭი რეზინა

🇦🇿 saqqız

🇲🇽 chicle

Etymology

The word 'gum' originated from the Middle English word 'gome', which meant 'the flesh around the teeth'. Over time, the meaning of 'gum' evolved to refer to various types of substances, including the chicle used in chewing gum and the rubbery material used in dentistry. The slang usage of 'gum' to refer to a person's courage or boldness likely developed from the idea of 'having the gumption' to do something.

See also: gumbo, gummer, gummy.

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.