Jam up Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To become stuck, blocked, or unable to move or work properly, often because something is preventing normal movement. It can refer to machines, traffic, or any process that gets blocked.
Usage & Nuances
Informal, common in American English. Used for traffic ('traffic jammed up'), printers ('the paper jammed up'), or any blocked system. 'Jam up' is physical or logistical, not for emotional states. Don’t confuse with 'jam' (music or food).
Example Sentences
The copy machine jammed up again.
basic
My drawer is jammed up and won't open.
basic
The cars jammed up on the bridge during rush hour.
basic
My laptop totally jammed up after that update.
natural
Sorry I'm late, the subway jammed up and we had to wait forever.
natural
The whole process just jammed up because of one missing file.
natural