1. n. & v.
--n.
1. a a viscous secretion of some trees and shrubs that hardens on drying but is soluble in water (cf. RESIN). b an adhesive substance made from this.
2 US chewing gum.
3 GUMDROP.
4 gum arabic.
5 gum-tree.
6 a secretion collecting in the corner of the eye.
7 US GUMBOOT.
--v. (gummed, gumming)
1. tr. smear or cover with gum.
2 tr. (usu. foll. by down, together, etc.) fasten with gum.
3 intr. exude gum.
Phrases and idioms:
gum arabic a gum exuded by some kinds of acacia and used as glue and in incense. gum benjamin benzoin. gum dragon tragacanth. gum juniper sandarac. gum resin a vegetable secretion of resin mixed with gum, e.g. gamboge. gum-tree a tree exuding gum, esp. a eucalyptus. gum up
1. (of a mechanism etc.) become clogged or obstructed with stickiness.
2 colloq. interfere with the smooth running of (gum up the works). up a gum-tree colloq. in great difficulties.
Etymology: ME f. OF gomme ult. f. L gummi, cummi f. Gk kommi f. Egypt. kemai 2. n. (usu. in pl.) the firm flesh around the roots of the teeth.
Phrases and idioms:
gum-shield a pad protecting a boxer's teeth and gums.
Etymology: OE goma rel. to OHG guomo, ON g{oacute}mr roof or floor of the mouth 3. n. colloq. (in oaths) God (by gum!).
Etymology: corrupt. of God