jam
word
Definition
Jam most commonly means a sweet fruit spread that you put on bread. It can also mean a situation where things are stuck or crowded, such as heavy traffic, or as a verb, to become stuck or blocked.
Usage & Nuances
Very context-dependent. As a noun, 'jam' often means the food; in daily speech, 'traffic jam' is a fixed phrase. As a verb, common patterns are 'the door jammed', 'jam the printer', and 'jam into' for forcing something into a small space. Don't confuse it with 'jelly', which differs by region and texture.
Example Sentences
I put strawberry jam on my toast this morning.
basic
We were late because of a traffic jam.
basic
The window jammed, so I couldn't open it.
basic
There was a huge jam outside the stadium after the game.
natural
My printer always jams when I'm in a hurry.
natural
Don't jam all your clothes into that small bag.
natural