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Gummed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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gummed

[ษกสŒmd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

sticky substance

Gummed refers to the action of applying a sticky substance to something, typically paper or other materials. This can involve using glue, adhesive, or any other substance that creates a bond between surfaces. The term can also describe the process of becoming stuck together due to moisture or the properties of the sticky material. In a broader sense, gummed can signify the act of making something adhesive or applying a substance that promotes adhesion.

Synonyms

adhere, bond, stick.

Examples of usage

  • She gummed the edges of the paper together.
  • He gummed the letters onto the envelope.
  • The gummed tape made sealing the package easy.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Uses

  • In ancient times, natural gums from trees were used as adhesives for various purposes, including building and art.
  • During the 19th century, gummed paper became popular for stamps and envelopes, simplifying mailing processes.
  • Historical records indicate that gum was used in the production of candies and confections, enhancing their texture.

Cultural References

  • In children's stories, characters often face sticky situations or challenges involving 'gummed' items, adding a playful element.
  • The phrase 'gummed up' is commonly used in movies and shows to denote a situation where something is stuck or not working properly.
  • Artistic movements often incorporate the imagery of stickiness to represent binds in relationships or situations, making it a metaphor in literature.

Scientific Aspects

  • Gums are often polysaccharides, meaning they are made up of many sugar molecules, giving them their sticky properties.
  • Biologists study natural gums for their applications in food, medicine, and even cosmetics, due to their adhesive qualities.
  • In materials science, synthetic gummed materials are developed for various applications, including adhesives, coatings, and sealants.

Pop Culture

  • The candy gum industry is enormous, with flavors and textures evolving, leading to gummed treats being a staple in candy shops.
  • Films and cartoons often depict gum being mischievously used, such as being blown into bubbles or stuck to surfaces, making it humorous.
  • Gumming has become a metaphor in modern media, representing discontent or frustration, depicting characters 'gummed up' in their lives.

Origin of 'gummed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'gum' comes from the Old English 'goma,' meaning 'gum' or 'sticky substance.'
  • In Latin, 'gummi' referred to a plant resin that was often sticky, influencing many languages' terms for glue-like substances.
  • The transformation from the literal sticky substance to describe something figuratively ('gummed up' with issues) reflects language evolution.

The term 'gummed' comes from the word 'gum', which has its roots in Middle English 'gumme' and Old French 'gomme'. These earlier forms derived from the Late Latin word 'gumma', meaning a resin or sticky substance. Over time, 'gum' evolved to refer to various adhesive substances derived from plants. The suffix '-ed' indicates that it is the past participle form, suggesting that an action has already been completed, in this case, the application of a sticky substance. The usage of 'gummed' has incorporated the various contexts in which adhesive properties are utilized, from crafting to packaging. Today, it is widely recognized in both everyday language and specialized fields that involve adhesives, such as printing and manufacturing.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,678, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.