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Definition of jamb

jamb

/dʒæm/
jamb
Plural:jambs
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jamb Lexical Profile

jamb Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A vertical side piece or post that forms the structural frame of a doorway, window, or other opening in a wall.

Example

"He leaned casually against the door jamb while waiting for his friend to get ready."

2

One of the upright sides of a fireplace opening.

Example

"The ornate marble jambs on either side of the antique fireplace added a touch of grandeur to the living room."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for jamb

Word Nuance & Usage

Often confused with its homophone 'jam', which refers to a fruit preserve, a blockage, or a difficult situation, whereas 'jamb' strictly refers to an architectural support.

• Rhymes for jamb

• Nearby Words

jamaican boa
jamaican iguana
jamari
jamb
jambalaya
jambolan
jamboree

Word Origin & Etymology

Early 14th century, from Old French 'jambe' meaning 'leg' or 'vertical support', ultimately from Late Latin 'gamba' (hock, leg of an animal).

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Jamb. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/jamb
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