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Jams: meaning, definitions and examples

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jams

 

[ dʒæmz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

spread on bread

Jams are sweet spreads made from fruits cooked with sugar. They are commonly used as a topping for bread, toast, or pastries.

Synonyms

jelly, marmalade, preserves

Examples of usage

  • Would you like some strawberry jam on your toast?
  • My favorite jam is apricot.
Context #2 | Noun

traffic congestion

In informal usage, 'jams' can refer to traffic congestion or a situation where vehicles are stuck in a slow-moving line.

Synonyms

congestion, gridlock, traffic jam

Examples of usage

  • We were late to the meeting because we got stuck in a jam on the highway.
  • The rush hour jam in the city center is always frustrating.

Translations

Translations of the word "jams" in other languages:

🇵🇹 geleias

🇮🇳 जैम

🇩🇪 Marmeladen

🇮🇩 selai

🇺🇦 варення

🇵🇱 dżemy

🇯🇵 ジャム

🇫🇷 confitures

🇪🇸 mermeladas

🇹🇷 reçeller

🇰🇷 잼

🇸🇦 مربيات

🇨🇿 džemy

🇸🇰 džemy

🇨🇳 果酱

🇸🇮 marmelade

🇮🇸 sultur

🇰🇿 джемдер

🇬🇪 ჯემები

🇦🇿 mürəbbələr

🇲🇽 mermeladas

Etymology

The word 'jam' originated in the late 18th century, derived from the verb 'jamb' meaning 'to press tightly'. The culinary sense of 'jam' as a sweet spread dates back to the early 19th century, with the practice of preserving fruits in sugar becoming popular. The term 'traffic jam' emerged in the early 20th century with the rise of automobiles and urban congestion.

See also: jam, jammed.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,156, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.