Pronunciation: [ɡɹˈuːmz] (IPA) 
The word "grumes" is spelled with a hard "g" and a silent "e" at the end. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled as /ɡruːmz/. The "u" is pronounced as a long "oo" sound, followed by a hard "m" and "z". According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, "grumes" means partly congealed blood or other liquid. Although this word is not commonly used, it is still important to know its spelling and pronunciation to expand your vocabulary.
Grumes, a noun, refers to partially melted or congealed masses of snow, ice, or slush. It denotes the state of a substance transforming from a solid state to a somewhat sticky, lumpy, and malleable form due to the melting or partial melting process. The word is commonly used in the context of snow or ice that has started to melt and then refreezes, resulting in the formation of clumps or lumpy masses.
Grumes often occur during temperature fluctuations, where snow or ice rather than completely melting turns into a semi-solid state, resembling a slushy or clumpy texture. These partially melted masses may be found on the ground or on objects like trees or buildings after a period of snow or ice accumulation, and subsequent shift in weather conditions.
The term "grumes" is frequently used in winter or mountaineering contexts to describe the accumulation and transformation of snow into lumpy masses. It plays a crucial role in assessing the stability and safety of snowpack in avalanche-prone areas, as grumes can indicate weak layers that are prone to structural collapse. Understanding the characteristics and behavior of grumes can help experts and enthusiasts alike make informed decisions regarding snow-related activities, mitigating potential risks associated with unstable snowpacks and avalanches.
The term "grumes" originated from the late Latin word "grūma", which means a heap or mass. It later evolved into the Old French word "grume" with the same meaning. Over time, the French word was adopted into Middle English as "grume", referring to a clot or congealed mass of blood. Today, "grumes" typically refers to masses of coagulated blood or clotted material, particularly in medical or surgical contexts.
