chum

chum · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    (Informal) A close friend or companion.

  2. 2.

    Chopped fish, fish fluids, and other material thrown into the water as bait for fish.

  3. 3.

    (As a verb) To be or become friends with someone.

  4. 4.

    (As a verb) To throw chum into the water to attract fish.

Forms

plural: chums

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    chum up with — To become friendly with someone.
  • •
    old chum — An old friend, often used as a term of address.

Related words

Antonyms: enemy, foe, stranger
See also: buddy, friend, pal
Synonyms: buddy, friend, mate, pal

Etymology

Originally meaning "chamber-fellow" or roommate, from 17th-century student slang, possibly a shortened form of chamber-mate. The fishing sense is from a different origin, possibly from Scottish chum meaning "food."