Shobdo Logo
MW→jam

jam

Flag: gbEnglishMerriam-Webster Dictionary
jam
noun (1)
ˈjam

Definition (Entry 1 of 3)

  • a food made by boiling fruit and sugar to a thick consistency
verb
jammed; jam​ming

Definition (Entry 2 of 3)

  • intransitive ​verb
  • to become blocked, wedged, or stuck fast //The line jammed and the boat hung useless.
    to become unworkable when a movable part becomes blocked or stuck //the gun jammed
  • to force one's way into a restricted space //People continued to jam into the already crowded hall.
  • to improvise on a musical instrument with a group to take part in a jam session //musicians jamming together
  • basketball dunk sense 2
  • transitive ​verb
  • to press into a close or tight position //jammed his hat on
    to cause to become wedged or stuck so as to be unworkable //jam the typewriter keys
    to make (machinery) unworkable by becoming wedged or stuck //The paper jammed the printer.
    to block passage of obstruct //traffic jammed by an accident
    to fill often to excess pack //the crowd jammed the theater
  • to push forcibly //jammed the shovel into the ground
    especially to apply (brakes) suddenly and forcibly —used with on //suddenly jammed on the brakes
  • to cause (a part of the body) to be painfully crushed or squeezed //jammed his finger in the door
  • to make unintelligible by sending out interfering signals or messages //jam a radio broadcast
    to make (a radar apparatus) ineffective by sending out interfering signals or by causing reflection of radar waves //trying to jam the enemy's radar
  • American football to block, crowd, or bump (a pass receiver) near the line of scrimmage //The receiver got jammed at the line.
  • baseball to pitch inside to (a batter) //jammed him with a fastball
noun (2)

Definition (Entry 3 of 3)

  • a crowded mass that impedes or blocks movement //a traffic jam
    an act or instance of becoming blocked or jammed (see jam entry 2) //paper causing a jam of the copier
  • the quality or state of being blocked, stopped, or jammed //the jam of the legislature caused by the piling up of new bills in the final days
    the pressure or congestion of a crowd crush //a jam of people
  • a difficult situation or state of affairs fix //got into a jam
  • basketball dunk shot
  • slang
    a musical piece //Although Rodriguez claimed to know nothing about music, he seemed certain of one thing regarding Lopez's latest jam: "I knew it was going to be a smash the first time I heard it." — Abby Jones
    especially one that is favored or preferred over others //Everyone has their song—or songs—they listen to when they are doing some kind of exercise. For Carrie Underwood, though, it sounds like her jam is whatever music she's just discovered. — Alison Bonaguro
    a favorite or much-loved item, subject, interest, activity, etc. //We think potatoes go with pretty much everything, and these are a straightforward classic that pairs beautifully with the brightly flavored, mustardy chicken. Leave out the oregano if you don't have it or if it's not your jam. — Margaux Laskey //In college, reading his [Robert F. Kennedy's] speeches—"that was my jam," she [Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez] said. — David Remnick //… he loves to go grocery shopping at PCC, and his oldest son introduced him recently to New Seasons Market. Cooking—especially making salmon—is his jam. — Lisa Patterson
Other Words
Noun (1)
  • jam​my ˈja-mē adjective
Verb
  • jam​mer ˈja-mər noun
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms: Verb
cram crowd crush ram sandwich shoehorn squeeze stuff wedge
Synonyms: Noun (2)
backup bottleneck jam-up logjam snarl tailback [British] tie-up
Examples
Verb
  • //Thousands of people jammed into the hall.
  • //People were jamming the exits after the concert.
  • //He jammed the book back into the bookcase.
  • //She jammed her foot down hard on the brakes.
  • //She jammed on the brakes.
  • //A piece of paper jammed the copy machine.
Noun (2)
  • //thousands of cars trying to leave the stadium's parking lot at the same time are sure to create a jam
  • //the heavy rain puts us in a real jam: all of the preparations are for a garden wedding
First Known Use
Noun (1)
circa 1736, in the meaning defined above
Verb
1706, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1a
Noun (2)
1805, in the meaning defined at sense 1b
History and Etymology
Noun (1)
perhaps derivative of jam entry 2
Verb
origin unknown
Noun (2)
derivative of jam entry 2
jam
verb

Synonyms (Entry 1 of 2)

noun

Synonyms (Entry 2 of 2)

jam
noun (1)
ˈjam

Definition (Entry 1 of 3)

  • a food made by boiling fruit and sugar to a thick consistency
verb
jammed; jam​ming

Definition (Entry 2 of 3)

  • intransitive ​verb
  • to become blocked, wedged, or stuck fast //The line jammed and the boat hung useless.
    to become unworkable when a movable part becomes blocked or stuck //the gun jammed
  • to force one's way into a restricted space //People continued to jam into the already crowded hall.
  • to improvise on a musical instrument with a group to take part in a jam session //musicians jamming together
  • basketball dunk sense 2
  • transitive ​verb
  • to press into a close or tight position //jammed his hat on
    to cause to become wedged or stuck so as to be unworkable //jam the typewriter keys
    to make (machinery) unworkable by becoming wedged or stuck //The paper jammed the printer.
    to block passage of obstruct //traffic jammed by an accident
    to fill often to excess pack //the crowd jammed the theater
  • to push forcibly //jammed the shovel into the ground
    especially to apply (brakes) suddenly and forcibly —used with on //suddenly jammed on the brakes
  • to cause (a part of the body) to be painfully crushed or squeezed //jammed his finger in the door
  • to make unintelligible by sending out interfering signals or messages //jam a radio broadcast
    to make (a radar apparatus) ineffective by sending out interfering signals or by causing reflection of radar waves //trying to jam the enemy's radar
  • American football to block, crowd, or bump (a pass receiver) near the line of scrimmage //The receiver got jammed at the line.
  • baseball to pitch inside to (a batter) //jammed him with a fastball
noun (2)

Definition (Entry 3 of 3)

  • a crowded mass that impedes or blocks movement //a traffic jam
    an act or instance of becoming blocked or jammed (see jam entry 2) //paper causing a jam of the copier
  • the quality or state of being blocked, stopped, or jammed //the jam of the legislature caused by the piling up of new bills in the final days
    the pressure or congestion of a crowd crush //a jam of people
  • a difficult situation or state of affairs fix //got into a jam
  • basketball dunk shot
  • slang
    a musical piece //Although Rodriguez claimed to know nothing about music, he seemed certain of one thing regarding Lopez's latest jam: "I knew it was going to be a smash the first time I heard it." — Abby Jones
    especially one that is favored or preferred over others //Everyone has their song—or songs—they listen to when they are doing some kind of exercise. For Carrie Underwood, though, it sounds like her jam is whatever music she's just discovered. — Alison Bonaguro
    a favorite or much-loved item, subject, interest, activity, etc. //We think potatoes go with pretty much everything, and these are a straightforward classic that pairs beautifully with the brightly flavored, mustardy chicken. Leave out the oregano if you don't have it or if it's not your jam. — Margaux Laskey //In college, reading his [Robert F. Kennedy's] speeches—"that was my jam," she [Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez] said. — David Remnick //… he loves to go grocery shopping at PCC, and his oldest son introduced him recently to New Seasons Market. Cooking—especially making salmon—is his jam. — Lisa Patterson
Other Words
Noun (1)
  • jam​my ˈja-mē adjective
Verb
  • jam​mer ˈja-mər noun
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms: Verb
cram crowd crush ram sandwich shoehorn squeeze stuff wedge
Synonyms: Noun (2)
backup bottleneck jam-up logjam snarl tailback [British] tie-up
Examples
Verb
  • //Thousands of people jammed into the hall.
  • //People were jamming the exits after the concert.
  • //He jammed the book back into the bookcase.
  • //She jammed her foot down hard on the brakes.
  • //She jammed on the brakes.
  • //A piece of paper jammed the copy machine.
Noun (2)
  • //thousands of cars trying to leave the stadium's parking lot at the same time are sure to create a jam
  • //the heavy rain puts us in a real jam: all of the preparations are for a garden wedding
First Known Use
Noun (1)
circa 1736, in the meaning defined above
Verb
1706, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1a
Noun (2)
1805, in the meaning defined at sense 1b
History and Etymology
Noun (1)
perhaps derivative of jam entry 2
Verb
origin unknown
Noun (2)
derivative of jam entry 2
jam
verb

Synonyms (Entry 1 of 2)

noun

Synonyms (Entry 2 of 2)

jam
noun (1)
ˈjam

Definition (Entry 1 of 3)

  • a food made by boiling fruit and sugar to a thick consistency
verb
jammed; jam​ming

Definition (Entry 2 of 3)

  • intransitive ​verb
  • to become blocked, wedged, or stuck fast //The line jammed and the boat hung useless.
    to become unworkable when a movable part becomes blocked or stuck //the gun jammed
  • to force one's way into a restricted space //People continued to jam into the already crowded hall.
  • to improvise on a musical instrument with a group to take part in a jam session //musicians jamming together
  • basketball dunk sense 2
  • transitive ​verb
  • to press into a close or tight position //jammed his hat on
    to cause to become wedged or stuck so as to be unworkable //jam the typewriter keys
    to make (machinery) unworkable by becoming wedged or stuck //The paper jammed the printer.
    to block passage of obstruct //traffic jammed by an accident
    to fill often to excess pack //the crowd jammed the theater
  • to push forcibly //jammed the shovel into the ground
    especially to apply (brakes) suddenly and forcibly —used with on //suddenly jammed on the brakes
  • to cause (a part of the body) to be painfully crushed or squeezed //jammed his finger in the door
  • to make unintelligible by sending out interfering signals or messages //jam a radio broadcast
    to make (a radar apparatus) ineffective by sending out interfering signals or by causing reflection of radar waves //trying to jam the enemy's radar
  • American football to block, crowd, or bump (a pass receiver) near the line of scrimmage //The receiver got jammed at the line.
  • baseball to pitch inside to (a batter) //jammed him with a fastball
noun (2)

Definition (Entry 3 of 3)

  • a crowded mass that impedes or blocks movement //a traffic jam
    an act or instance of becoming blocked or jammed (see jam entry 2) //paper causing a jam of the copier
  • the quality or state of being blocked, stopped, or jammed //the jam of the legislature caused by the piling up of new bills in the final days
    the pressure or congestion of a crowd crush //a jam of people
  • a difficult situation or state of affairs fix //got into a jam
  • basketball dunk shot
  • slang
    a musical piece //Although Rodriguez claimed to know nothing about music, he seemed certain of one thing regarding Lopez's latest jam: "I knew it was going to be a smash the first time I heard it." — Abby Jones
    especially one that is favored or preferred over others //Everyone has their song—or songs—they listen to when they are doing some kind of exercise. For Carrie Underwood, though, it sounds like her jam is whatever music she's just discovered. — Alison Bonaguro
    a favorite or much-loved item, subject, interest, activity, etc. //We think potatoes go with pretty much everything, and these are a straightforward classic that pairs beautifully with the brightly flavored, mustardy chicken. Leave out the oregano if you don't have it or if it's not your jam. — Margaux Laskey //In college, reading his [Robert F. Kennedy's] speeches—"that was my jam," she [Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez] said. — David Remnick //… he loves to go grocery shopping at PCC, and his oldest son introduced him recently to New Seasons Market. Cooking—especially making salmon—is his jam. — Lisa Patterson
Other Words
Noun (1)
  • jam​my ˈja-mē adjective
Verb
  • jam​mer ˈja-mər noun
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms: Verb
cram crowd crush ram sandwich shoehorn squeeze stuff wedge
Synonyms: Noun (2)
backup bottleneck jam-up logjam snarl tailback [British] tie-up
Examples
Verb
  • //Thousands of people jammed into the hall.
  • //People were jamming the exits after the concert.
  • //He jammed the book back into the bookcase.
  • //She jammed her foot down hard on the brakes.
  • //She jammed on the brakes.
  • //A piece of paper jammed the copy machine.
Noun (2)
  • //thousands of cars trying to leave the stadium's parking lot at the same time are sure to create a jam
  • //the heavy rain puts us in a real jam: all of the preparations are for a garden wedding
First Known Use
Noun (1)
circa 1736, in the meaning defined above
Verb
1706, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1a
Noun (2)
1805, in the meaning defined at sense 1b
History and Etymology
Noun (1)
perhaps derivative of jam entry 2
Verb
origin unknown
Noun (2)
derivative of jam entry 2
jam
verb

Synonyms (Entry 1 of 2)

noun

Synonyms (Entry 2 of 2)

jam
noun (1)
ˈjam

Definition (Entry 1 of 3)

  • a food made by boiling fruit and sugar to a thick consistency
verb
jammed; jam​ming

Definition (Entry 2 of 3)

  • intransitive ​verb
  • to become blocked, wedged, or stuck fast //The line jammed and the boat hung useless.
    to become unworkable when a movable part becomes blocked or stuck //the gun jammed
  • to force one's way into a restricted space //People continued to jam into the already crowded hall.
  • to improvise on a musical instrument with a group to take part in a jam session //musicians jamming together
  • basketball dunk sense 2
  • transitive ​verb
  • to press into a close or tight position //jammed his hat on
    to cause to become wedged or stuck so as to be unworkable //jam the typewriter keys
    to make (machinery) unworkable by becoming wedged or stuck //The paper jammed the printer.
    to block passage of obstruct //traffic jammed by an accident
    to fill often to excess pack //the crowd jammed the theater
  • to push forcibly //jammed the shovel into the ground
    especially to apply (brakes) suddenly and forcibly —used with on //suddenly jammed on the brakes
  • to cause (a part of the body) to be painfully crushed or squeezed //jammed his finger in the door
  • to make unintelligible by sending out interfering signals or messages //jam a radio broadcast
    to make (a radar apparatus) ineffective by sending out interfering signals or by causing reflection of radar waves //trying to jam the enemy's radar
  • American football to block, crowd, or bump (a pass receiver) near the line of scrimmage //The receiver got jammed at the line.
  • baseball to pitch inside to (a batter) //jammed him with a fastball
noun (2)

Definition (Entry 3 of 3)

  • a crowded mass that impedes or blocks movement //a traffic jam
    an act or instance of becoming blocked or jammed (see jam entry 2) //paper causing a jam of the copier
  • the quality or state of being blocked, stopped, or jammed //the jam of the legislature caused by the piling up of new bills in the final days
    the pressure or congestion of a crowd crush //a jam of people
  • a difficult situation or state of affairs fix //got into a jam
  • basketball dunk shot
  • slang
    a musical piece //Although Rodriguez claimed to know nothing about music, he seemed certain of one thing regarding Lopez's latest jam: "I knew it was going to be a smash the first time I heard it." — Abby Jones
    especially one that is favored or preferred over others //Everyone has their song—or songs—they listen to when they are doing some kind of exercise. For Carrie Underwood, though, it sounds like her jam is whatever music she's just discovered. — Alison Bonaguro
    a favorite or much-loved item, subject, interest, activity, etc. //We think potatoes go with pretty much everything, and these are a straightforward classic that pairs beautifully with the brightly flavored, mustardy chicken. Leave out the oregano if you don't have it or if it's not your jam. — Margaux Laskey //In college, reading his [Robert F. Kennedy's] speeches—"that was my jam," she [Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez] said. — David Remnick //… he loves to go grocery shopping at PCC, and his oldest son introduced him recently to New Seasons Market. Cooking—especially making salmon—is his jam. — Lisa Patterson
Other Words
Noun (1)
  • jam​my ˈja-mē adjective
Verb
  • jam​mer ˈja-mər noun
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms: Verb
cram crowd crush ram sandwich shoehorn squeeze stuff wedge
Synonyms: Noun (2)
backup bottleneck jam-up logjam snarl tailback [British] tie-up
Examples
Verb
  • //Thousands of people jammed into the hall.
  • //People were jamming the exits after the concert.
  • //He jammed the book back into the bookcase.
  • //She jammed her foot down hard on the brakes.
  • //She jammed on the brakes.
  • //A piece of paper jammed the copy machine.
Noun (2)
  • //thousands of cars trying to leave the stadium's parking lot at the same time are sure to create a jam
  • //the heavy rain puts us in a real jam: all of the preparations are for a garden wedding
First Known Use
Noun (1)
circa 1736, in the meaning defined above
Verb
1706, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1a
Noun (2)
1805, in the meaning defined at sense 1b
History and Etymology
Noun (1)
perhaps derivative of jam entry 2
Verb
origin unknown
Noun (2)
derivative of jam entry 2
jam
verb

Synonyms (Entry 1 of 2)

noun

Synonyms (Entry 2 of 2)

jam
noun (1)
ˈjam

Definition (Entry 1 of 3)

  • a food made by boiling fruit and sugar to a thick consistency
verb
jammed; jam​ming

Definition (Entry 2 of 3)

  • intransitive ​verb
  • to become blocked, wedged, or stuck fast //The line jammed and the boat hung useless.
    to become unworkable when a movable part becomes blocked or stuck //the gun jammed
  • to force one's way into a restricted space //People continued to jam into the already crowded hall.
  • to improvise on a musical instrument with a group to take part in a jam session //musicians jamming together
  • basketball dunk sense 2
  • transitive ​verb
  • to press into a close or tight position //jammed his hat on
    to cause to become wedged or stuck so as to be unworkable //jam the typewriter keys
    to make (machinery) unworkable by becoming wedged or stuck //The paper jammed the printer.
    to block passage of obstruct //traffic jammed by an accident
    to fill often to excess pack //the crowd jammed the theater
  • to push forcibly //jammed the shovel into the ground
    especially to apply (brakes) suddenly and forcibly —used with on //suddenly jammed on the brakes
  • to cause (a part of the body) to be painfully crushed or squeezed //jammed his finger in the door
  • to make unintelligible by sending out interfering signals or messages //jam a radio broadcast
    to make (a radar apparatus) ineffective by sending out interfering signals or by causing reflection of radar waves //trying to jam the enemy's radar
  • American football to block, crowd, or bump (a pass receiver) near the line of scrimmage //The receiver got jammed at the line.
  • baseball to pitch inside to (a batter) //jammed him with a fastball
noun (2)

Definition (Entry 3 of 3)

  • a crowded mass that impedes or blocks movement //a traffic jam
    an act or instance of becoming blocked or jammed (see jam entry 2) //paper causing a jam of the copier
  • the quality or state of being blocked, stopped, or jammed //the jam of the legislature caused by the piling up of new bills in the final days
    the pressure or congestion of a crowd crush //a jam of people
  • a difficult situation or state of affairs fix //got into a jam
  • basketball dunk shot
  • slang
    a musical piece //Although Rodriguez claimed to know nothing about music, he seemed certain of one thing regarding Lopez's latest jam: "I knew it was going to be a smash the first time I heard it." — Abby Jones
    especially one that is favored or preferred over others //Everyone has their song—or songs—they listen to when they are doing some kind of exercise. For Carrie Underwood, though, it sounds like her jam is whatever music she's just discovered. — Alison Bonaguro
    a favorite or much-loved item, subject, interest, activity, etc. //We think potatoes go with pretty much everything, and these are a straightforward classic that pairs beautifully with the brightly flavored, mustardy chicken. Leave out the oregano if you don't have it or if it's not your jam. — Margaux Laskey //In college, reading his [Robert F. Kennedy's] speeches—"that was my jam," she [Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez] said. — David Remnick //… he loves to go grocery shopping at PCC, and his oldest son introduced him recently to New Seasons Market. Cooking—especially making salmon—is his jam. — Lisa Patterson
Other Words
Noun (1)
  • jam​my ˈja-mē adjective
Verb
  • jam​mer ˈja-mər noun
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms: Verb
cram crowd crush ram sandwich shoehorn squeeze stuff wedge
Synonyms: Noun (2)
backup bottleneck jam-up logjam snarl tailback [British] tie-up
Examples
Verb
  • //Thousands of people jammed into the hall.
  • //People were jamming the exits after the concert.
  • //He jammed the book back into the bookcase.
  • //She jammed her foot down hard on the brakes.
  • //She jammed on the brakes.
  • //A piece of paper jammed the copy machine.
Noun (2)
  • //thousands of cars trying to leave the stadium's parking lot at the same time are sure to create a jam
  • //the heavy rain puts us in a real jam: all of the preparations are for a garden wedding
First Known Use
Noun (1)
circa 1736, in the meaning defined above
Verb
1706, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1a
Noun (2)
1805, in the meaning defined at sense 1b
History and Etymology
Noun (1)
perhaps derivative of jam entry 2
Verb
origin unknown
Noun (2)
derivative of jam entry 2
jam
verb

Synonyms (Entry 1 of 2)

noun

Synonyms (Entry 2 of 2)

jam
noun (1)
ˈjam

Definition (Entry 1 of 3)

  • a food made by boiling fruit and sugar to a thick consistency
verb
jammed; jam​ming

Definition (Entry 2 of 3)

  • intransitive ​verb
  • to become blocked, wedged, or stuck fast //The line jammed and the boat hung useless.
    to become unworkable when a movable part becomes blocked or stuck //the gun jammed
  • to force one's way into a restricted space //People continued to jam into the already crowded hall.
  • to improvise on a musical instrument with a group to take part in a jam session //musicians jamming together
  • basketball dunk sense 2
  • transitive ​verb
  • to press into a close or tight position //jammed his hat on
    to cause to become wedged or stuck so as to be unworkable //jam the typewriter keys
    to make (machinery) unworkable by becoming wedged or stuck //The paper jammed the printer.
    to block passage of obstruct //traffic jammed by an accident
    to fill often to excess pack //the crowd jammed the theater
  • to push forcibly //jammed the shovel into the ground
    especially to apply (brakes) suddenly and forcibly —used with on //suddenly jammed on the brakes
  • to cause (a part of the body) to be painfully crushed or squeezed //jammed his finger in the door
  • to make unintelligible by sending out interfering signals or messages //jam a radio broadcast
    to make (a radar apparatus) ineffective by sending out interfering signals or by causing reflection of radar waves //trying to jam the enemy's radar
  • American football to block, crowd, or bump (a pass receiver) near the line of scrimmage //The receiver got jammed at the line.
  • baseball to pitch inside to (a batter) //jammed him with a fastball
noun (2)

Definition (Entry 3 of 3)

  • a crowded mass that impedes or blocks movement //a traffic jam
    an act or instance of becoming blocked or jammed (see jam entry 2) //paper causing a jam of the copier
  • the quality or state of being blocked, stopped, or jammed //the jam of the legislature caused by the piling up of new bills in the final days
    the pressure or congestion of a crowd crush //a jam of people
  • a difficult situation or state of affairs fix //got into a jam
  • basketball dunk shot
  • slang
    a musical piece //Although Rodriguez claimed to know nothing about music, he seemed certain of one thing regarding Lopez's latest jam: "I knew it was going to be a smash the first time I heard it." — Abby Jones
    especially one that is favored or preferred over others //Everyone has their song—or songs—they listen to when they are doing some kind of exercise. For Carrie Underwood, though, it sounds like her jam is whatever music she's just discovered. — Alison Bonaguro
    a favorite or much-loved item, subject, interest, activity, etc. //We think potatoes go with pretty much everything, and these are a straightforward classic that pairs beautifully with the brightly flavored, mustardy chicken. Leave out the oregano if you don't have it or if it's not your jam. — Margaux Laskey //In college, reading his [Robert F. Kennedy's] speeches—"that was my jam," she [Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez] said. — David Remnick //… he loves to go grocery shopping at PCC, and his oldest son introduced him recently to New Seasons Market. Cooking—especially making salmon—is his jam. — Lisa Patterson
Other Words
Noun (1)
  • jam​my ˈja-mē adjective
Verb
  • jam​mer ˈja-mər noun
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms: Verb
cram crowd crush ram sandwich shoehorn squeeze stuff wedge
Synonyms: Noun (2)
backup bottleneck jam-up logjam snarl tailback [British] tie-up
Examples
Verb
  • //Thousands of people jammed into the hall.
  • //People were jamming the exits after the concert.
  • //He jammed the book back into the bookcase.
  • //She jammed her foot down hard on the brakes.
  • //She jammed on the brakes.
  • //A piece of paper jammed the copy machine.
Noun (2)
  • //thousands of cars trying to leave the stadium's parking lot at the same time are sure to create a jam
  • //the heavy rain puts us in a real jam: all of the preparations are for a garden wedding
First Known Use
Noun (1)
circa 1736, in the meaning defined above
Verb
1706, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1a
Noun (2)
1805, in the meaning defined at sense 1b
History and Etymology
Noun (1)
perhaps derivative of jam entry 2
Verb
origin unknown
Noun (2)
derivative of jam entry 2
jam
verb

Synonyms (Entry 1 of 2)

noun

Synonyms (Entry 2 of 2)

jam
noun (1)
ˈjam

Definition (Entry 1 of 3)

  • a food made by boiling fruit and sugar to a thick consistency
verb
jammed; jam​ming

Definition (Entry 2 of 3)

  • intransitive ​verb
  • to become blocked, wedged, or stuck fast //The line jammed and the boat hung useless.
    to become unworkable when a movable part becomes blocked or stuck //the gun jammed
  • to force one's way into a restricted space //People continued to jam into the already crowded hall.
  • to improvise on a musical instrument with a group to take part in a jam session //musicians jamming together
  • basketball dunk sense 2
  • transitive ​verb
  • to press into a close or tight position //jammed his hat on
    to cause to become wedged or stuck so as to be unworkable //jam the typewriter keys
    to make (machinery) unworkable by becoming wedged or stuck //The paper jammed the printer.
    to block passage of obstruct //traffic jammed by an accident
    to fill often to excess pack //the crowd jammed the theater
  • to push forcibly //jammed the shovel into the ground
    especially to apply (brakes) suddenly and forcibly —used with on //suddenly jammed on the brakes
  • to cause (a part of the body) to be painfully crushed or squeezed //jammed his finger in the door
  • to make unintelligible by sending out interfering signals or messages //jam a radio broadcast
    to make (a radar apparatus) ineffective by sending out interfering signals or by causing reflection of radar waves //trying to jam the enemy's radar
  • American football to block, crowd, or bump (a pass receiver) near the line of scrimmage //The receiver got jammed at the line.
  • baseball to pitch inside to (a batter) //jammed him with a fastball
noun (2)

Definition (Entry 3 of 3)

  • a crowded mass that impedes or blocks movement //a traffic jam
    an act or instance of becoming blocked or jammed (see jam entry 2) //paper causing a jam of the copier
  • the quality or state of being blocked, stopped, or jammed //the jam of the legislature caused by the piling up of new bills in the final days
    the pressure or congestion of a crowd crush //a jam of people
  • a difficult situation or state of affairs fix //got into a jam
  • basketball dunk shot
  • slang
    a musical piece //Although Rodriguez claimed to know nothing about music, he seemed certain of one thing regarding Lopez's latest jam: "I knew it was going to be a smash the first time I heard it." — Abby Jones
    especially one that is favored or preferred over others //Everyone has their song—or songs—they listen to when they are doing some kind of exercise. For Carrie Underwood, though, it sounds like her jam is whatever music she's just discovered. — Alison Bonaguro
    a favorite or much-loved item, subject, interest, activity, etc. //We think potatoes go with pretty much everything, and these are a straightforward classic that pairs beautifully with the brightly flavored, mustardy chicken. Leave out the oregano if you don't have it or if it's not your jam. — Margaux Laskey //In college, reading his [Robert F. Kennedy's] speeches—"that was my jam," she [Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez] said. — David Remnick //… he loves to go grocery shopping at PCC, and his oldest son introduced him recently to New Seasons Market. Cooking—especially making salmon—is his jam. — Lisa Patterson
Other Words
Noun (1)
  • jam​my ˈja-mē adjective
Verb
  • jam​mer ˈja-mər noun
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms: Verb
cram crowd crush ram sandwich shoehorn squeeze stuff wedge
Synonyms: Noun (2)
backup bottleneck jam-up logjam snarl tailback [British] tie-up
Examples
Verb
  • //Thousands of people jammed into the hall.
  • //People were jamming the exits after the concert.
  • //He jammed the book back into the bookcase.
  • //She jammed her foot down hard on the brakes.
  • //She jammed on the brakes.
  • //A piece of paper jammed the copy machine.
Noun (2)
  • //thousands of cars trying to leave the stadium's parking lot at the same time are sure to create a jam
  • //the heavy rain puts us in a real jam: all of the preparations are for a garden wedding
First Known Use
Noun (1)
circa 1736, in the meaning defined above
Verb
1706, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1a
Noun (2)
1805, in the meaning defined at sense 1b
History and Etymology
Noun (1)
perhaps derivative of jam entry 2
Verb
origin unknown
Noun (2)
derivative of jam entry 2
jam
verb

Synonyms (Entry 1 of 2)

noun

Synonyms (Entry 2 of 2)

jam
noun (1)
ˈjam

Definition (Entry 1 of 3)

  • a food made by boiling fruit and sugar to a thick consistency
verb
jammed; jam​ming

Definition (Entry 2 of 3)

  • intransitive ​verb
  • to become blocked, wedged, or stuck fast //The line jammed and the boat hung useless.
    to become unworkable when a movable part becomes blocked or stuck //the gun jammed
  • to force one's way into a restricted space //People continued to jam into the already crowded hall.
  • to improvise on a musical instrument with a group to take part in a jam session //musicians jamming together
  • basketball dunk sense 2
  • transitive ​verb
  • to press into a close or tight position //jammed his hat on
    to cause to become wedged or stuck so as to be unworkable //jam the typewriter keys
    to make (machinery) unworkable by becoming wedged or stuck //The paper jammed the printer.
    to block passage of obstruct //traffic jammed by an accident
    to fill often to excess pack //the crowd jammed the theater
  • to push forcibly //jammed the shovel into the ground
    especially to apply (brakes) suddenly and forcibly —used with on //suddenly jammed on the brakes
  • to cause (a part of the body) to be painfully crushed or squeezed //jammed his finger in the door
  • to make unintelligible by sending out interfering signals or messages //jam a radio broadcast
    to make (a radar apparatus) ineffective by sending out interfering signals or by causing reflection of radar waves //trying to jam the enemy's radar
  • American football to block, crowd, or bump (a pass receiver) near the line of scrimmage //The receiver got jammed at the line.
  • baseball to pitch inside to (a batter) //jammed him with a fastball
noun (2)

Definition (Entry 3 of 3)

  • a crowded mass that impedes or blocks movement //a traffic jam
    an act or instance of becoming blocked or jammed (see jam entry 2) //paper causing a jam of the copier
  • the quality or state of being blocked, stopped, or jammed //the jam of the legislature caused by the piling up of new bills in the final days
    the pressure or congestion of a crowd crush //a jam of people
  • a difficult situation or state of affairs fix //got into a jam
  • basketball dunk shot
  • slang
    a musical piece //Although Rodriguez claimed to know nothing about music, he seemed certain of one thing regarding Lopez's latest jam: "I knew it was going to be a smash the first time I heard it." — Abby Jones
    especially one that is favored or preferred over others //Everyone has their song—or songs—they listen to when they are doing some kind of exercise. For Carrie Underwood, though, it sounds like her jam is whatever music she's just discovered. — Alison Bonaguro
    a favorite or much-loved item, subject, interest, activity, etc. //We think potatoes go with pretty much everything, and these are a straightforward classic that pairs beautifully with the brightly flavored, mustardy chicken. Leave out the oregano if you don't have it or if it's not your jam. — Margaux Laskey //In college, reading his [Robert F. Kennedy's] speeches—"that was my jam," she [Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez] said. — David Remnick //… he loves to go grocery shopping at PCC, and his oldest son introduced him recently to New Seasons Market. Cooking—especially making salmon—is his jam. — Lisa Patterson
Other Words
Noun (1)
  • jam​my ˈja-mē adjective
Verb
  • jam​mer ˈja-mər noun
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms: Verb
cram crowd crush ram sandwich shoehorn squeeze stuff wedge
Synonyms: Noun (2)
backup bottleneck jam-up logjam snarl tailback [British] tie-up
Examples
Verb
  • //Thousands of people jammed into the hall.
  • //People were jamming the exits after the concert.
  • //He jammed the book back into the bookcase.
  • //She jammed her foot down hard on the brakes.
  • //She jammed on the brakes.
  • //A piece of paper jammed the copy machine.
Noun (2)
  • //thousands of cars trying to leave the stadium's parking lot at the same time are sure to create a jam
  • //the heavy rain puts us in a real jam: all of the preparations are for a garden wedding
First Known Use
Noun (1)
circa 1736, in the meaning defined above
Verb
1706, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1a
Noun (2)
1805, in the meaning defined at sense 1b
History and Etymology
Noun (1)
perhaps derivative of jam entry 2
Verb
origin unknown
Noun (2)
derivative of jam entry 2
jam
verb

Synonyms (Entry 1 of 2)

noun

Synonyms (Entry 2 of 2)

jam
noun (1)
ˈjam

Definition (Entry 1 of 3)

  • a food made by boiling fruit and sugar to a thick consistency
verb
jammed; jam​ming

Definition (Entry 2 of 3)

  • intransitive ​verb
  • to become blocked, wedged, or stuck fast //The line jammed and the boat hung useless.
    to become unworkable when a movable part becomes blocked or stuck //the gun jammed
  • to force one's way into a restricted space //People continued to jam into the already crowded hall.
  • to improvise on a musical instrument with a group to take part in a jam session //musicians jamming together
  • basketball dunk sense 2
  • transitive ​verb
  • to press into a close or tight position //jammed his hat on
    to cause to become wedged or stuck so as to be unworkable //jam the typewriter keys
    to make (machinery) unworkable by becoming wedged or stuck //The paper jammed the printer.
    to block passage of obstruct //traffic jammed by an accident
    to fill often to excess pack //the crowd jammed the theater
  • to push forcibly //jammed the shovel into the ground
    especially to apply (brakes) suddenly and forcibly —used with on //suddenly jammed on the brakes
  • to cause (a part of the body) to be painfully crushed or squeezed //jammed his finger in the door
  • to make unintelligible by sending out interfering signals or messages //jam a radio broadcast
    to make (a radar apparatus) ineffective by sending out interfering signals or by causing reflection of radar waves //trying to jam the enemy's radar
  • American football to block, crowd, or bump (a pass receiver) near the line of scrimmage //The receiver got jammed at the line.
  • baseball to pitch inside to (a batter) //jammed him with a fastball
noun (2)

Definition (Entry 3 of 3)

  • a crowded mass that impedes or blocks movement //a traffic jam
    an act or instance of becoming blocked or jammed (see jam entry 2) //paper causing a jam of the copier
  • the quality or state of being blocked, stopped, or jammed //the jam of the legislature caused by the piling up of new bills in the final days
    the pressure or congestion of a crowd crush //a jam of people
  • a difficult situation or state of affairs fix //got into a jam
  • basketball dunk shot
  • slang
    a musical piece //Although Rodriguez claimed to know nothing about music, he seemed certain of one thing regarding Lopez's latest jam: "I knew it was going to be a smash the first time I heard it." — Abby Jones
    especially one that is favored or preferred over others //Everyone has their song—or songs—they listen to when they are doing some kind of exercise. For Carrie Underwood, though, it sounds like her jam is whatever music she's just discovered. — Alison Bonaguro
    a favorite or much-loved item, subject, interest, activity, etc. //We think potatoes go with pretty much everything, and these are a straightforward classic that pairs beautifully with the brightly flavored, mustardy chicken. Leave out the oregano if you don't have it or if it's not your jam. — Margaux Laskey //In college, reading his [Robert F. Kennedy's] speeches—"that was my jam," she [Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez] said. — David Remnick //… he loves to go grocery shopping at PCC, and his oldest son introduced him recently to New Seasons Market. Cooking—especially making salmon—is his jam. — Lisa Patterson
Other Words
Noun (1)
  • jam​my ˈja-mē adjective
Verb
  • jam​mer ˈja-mər noun
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms: Verb
cram crowd crush ram sandwich shoehorn squeeze stuff wedge
Synonyms: Noun (2)
backup bottleneck jam-up logjam snarl tailback [British] tie-up
Examples
Verb
  • //Thousands of people jammed into the hall.
  • //People were jamming the exits after the concert.
  • //He jammed the book back into the bookcase.
  • //She jammed her foot down hard on the brakes.
  • //She jammed on the brakes.
  • //A piece of paper jammed the copy machine.
Noun (2)
  • //thousands of cars trying to leave the stadium's parking lot at the same time are sure to create a jam
  • //the heavy rain puts us in a real jam: all of the preparations are for a garden wedding
First Known Use
Noun (1)
circa 1736, in the meaning defined above
Verb
1706, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1a
Noun (2)
1805, in the meaning defined at sense 1b
History and Etymology
Noun (1)
perhaps derivative of jam entry 2
Verb
origin unknown
Noun (2)
derivative of jam entry 2
jam
verb

Synonyms (Entry 1 of 2)

noun

Synonyms (Entry 2 of 2)