jam

 

In the first set of sentences, the word "jam" means that something or someone is unable to move, or it can mean that something prevents or limits movement.

  • There was a big traffic jam following the accident. (This sentence uses "jam" as a noun.)
  • My photocopier used to get jammed all the time, so we got a new one. (This sentence uses "jam" as a verb.)
  • There’s a paper jam in the photocopier. (This sentence uses "jam" as a noun.)
  • Signals to and from cell phones are sometimes jammed by tall buildings.
  • The stores are often jammed with shoppers after Thanksgiving and before Christmas.
  • Tokyo is known for having jammed subway cars. (This sentence uses "jam" as an adjective.)
  • You shouldn’t try to jam too much into your suitcase when you go on a trip. Try to leave a little space.

Musicians who get together to play music jam:

  • The jam session lasted until two in the morning.
  • Alan would like to learn how to jam with other musicians who play the blues.
  • Let’s get together and jam sometime.

"Jam" is also something that you can eat in the form of spreadable fruit. It’s similar to marmalade or jelly.

  • Joey loves strawberry jam on toast.
  • Sarah doesn’t like raspberry jam because of all the seeds in it.

jam on toast Strawberry jam on toast

Note: if you have trouble making the "j" sound in English, click here to practice.

Click here to go to the Word of the Day page.

This page was first published on August 23, 2012. It was amended on January 11, 2015.