jam
jam Lexical Profile
jam Game Scores & Validity
• noun
An instance of being blocked or packed so tightly that movement or operation is prevented.
"We missed the flight because our taxi was stuck in a massive traffic jam on the highway."
A sweet preserve made by boiling crushed fruit with sugar until it reaches a thick consistency.
"She spread a generous layer of strawberry jam on her morning toast."
A difficult situation or predicament.
"I need to ask you for a favor because I am in a bit of a jam right now."
• verb
To squeeze or pack tightly into a specified space.
"The commuters tried to jam themselves into the already crowded train carriage."
To cause a machine or part to become stuck and unable to operate, or to become stuck in this way.
"The printer jammed again when I tried to print my final essay."
To improvise and play music informally with other musicians.
"The band members got together in the garage to jam for a few hours over the weekend."
Word Nuance & Usage
When referring to the fruit spread, 'jam' usually contains pieces of crushed fruit, distinguishing it from 'jelly', which is made purely from strained fruit juice.
• Rhymes for jam
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Early 18th century (as a verb meaning 'press or squeeze'): of uncertain origin, possibly symbolic of the action. The noun sense referring to a fruit conserve dates from the 1730s, likely derived from the idea of crushing or squeezing the fruit.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.