gum Definition

gum¹
noun

1. The firm fibrous flesh surrounding the roots of the teeth.

Etymology: Anglo-Saxon goma palate.

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gum²
noun

1. Any of various substances found in certain plants, especially trees, that produce a sticky solution or gel when added to water, used in confectionery, gummed envelopes, etc.
2. This or any similar substance used as glue.
3. A gumdrop.
4. colloq
Chewing-gum.

verb

gummed, gumming
1. To smear, glue or unite something with gum.

Etymology: 13c: from French gomme, from Latin gummi.

Phrasal Verb: gum something up

To stick something to itself so that it no longer functions properly.To prevent (a machine, scheme, etc) from working properly.