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Jams Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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jams

[dʒæmz ]

Definitions

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
jams

Used to describe a thick, sweet spread made by boiling fruit and sugar until it comes together. Typically used for breakfast spreads on toast or for baking purposes. It contains fruit pieces or pulp.

  • I love spreading strawberry jam on my morning toast.
  • This homemade raspberry jam pairs well with scones.
preserves

Used to indicate fruit that is cooked with sugar and stored for long periods. Can have large chunks or whole fruits. Often used broadly for all types of fruit spreads.

  • Cherry preserves make a wonderful topping for cheesecake.
  • I love the texture of whole fig preserves with my brie cheese.
marmalade

Specifically used to describe a citrus-based spread that includes pieces of peel, adding a slightly bitter flavor to the sweetness. Often served with breakfast items.

  • Orange marmalade gives a unique zest to morning croissants.
  • A spoonful of marmalade can enhance the flavor of plain yogurt.

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
jams

Best used to describe a general situation where movement is hindered, not necessarily limited to traffic. It can be used in everyday scenarios.

  • This morning, the printer jammed, and I couldn't finish my work.
  • There were severe jams on the highway during rush hour.
traffic jam

Describes a specific situation with vehicles where movement is very slow or stopped, typically used for road traffic.

  • I was late because I got stuck in a traffic jam.
  • Heavy rains caused a traffic jam on the main street.
gridlock

Refers specifically to a complete or near-complete halt in traffic movement, often due to high density of vehicles. It emphasizes the immobility aspect.

  • The downtown area was in gridlock after the football game.
  • Political gridlock can prevent laws from being passed.
congestion

Suitable for describing situations where there is an excessive buildup, often used in transportation (traffic congestion) or health (nasal congestion). It implies an undesirable accumulation.

  • The city experiences severe congestion during peak hours.
  • Nasal congestion can be a symptom of a cold.

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

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The practice of making preserves from fruits dates back to ancient Egypt, around 2000 BCE, showcasing how long humans have enjoyed this treat.
  • During the Middle Ages, preserving fruits by cooking them with sugar became popular among European nobility, often as a way to enjoy seasonal flavors year-round.

Culinary Arts

  • Different types of jams are made from various fruits, but the basic process involves cooking crushed fruit with sugar and sometimes pectin for thickness.
  • In many cultures, making jams at home is a cherished tradition, often involving family gatherings and seasonal fruit harvesting.

Pop Culture

  • Jams have inspired many songs and phrases in music, often symbolizing good times and sweet moments shared among friends.
  • The term 'jam session' refers to informal gatherings where musicians play together, reflecting the joy and improvisation found in music, similar to how fruit can transform into a delightful spread.

Science

  • The cooking process of making jams involves heat, which breaks down fruit cell walls and releases pectin, a natural thickening agent.
  • Scientists study the microbiome of fruits to understand how the bacteria present affects fermentation, which is crucial in making certain types of jams.

Economics

  • The global jam and jelly market is a multi-billion-dollar industry, with a significant rise in demand for organic and artisan options.
  • Seasonal fluctuations in fruit harvests can heavily impact the availability and pricing of jams in supermarkets and local markets.

Origin of 'jams'

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.