gum

gum · noun, verb

imported

Definitions

noun, verb

  1. 1.

    (noun) The firm area of flesh around the roots of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw.

  2. 2.

    (noun) A sticky substance exuded by some trees and shrubs.

  3. 3.

    (noun) Chewing gum; a flavored preparation for chewing.

  4. 4.

    (verb) To coat or stick with gum or a similar adhesive.

Forms

plural: gums

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    chewing gum — A sweet, flavored substance for chewing
  • •
    gum up the works — To cause something to stop working properly
  • •
    bubble gum — Gum that can be blown into bubbles
  • •
    gum disease — Medical condition affecting the gums

Related words

See also: adhesive, resin, teeth
Synonyms: adhesive, resin

Etymology

For the anatomical sense: from Old English gōma ("palate, jaw"). For the substance: from Old French gomme, from Latin gummi, from Greek kommi, from Egyptian kemai.