The spelling of the word "gumming" is straightforward when compared to other English words. In International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), it can be transcribed as /ˈɡʌmɪŋ/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "u" sound, followed by a voiced velar plosive for "g". The second syllable includes a short "i" sound and a nasal consonant "n." The final consonant "g" is pronounced with a silent "e" at the end. In general, "gumming" means to cover or stick something with gum or adhesive.
Gumming is a verb that refers to the action or process of applying or sticking gum-like substances onto objects or surfaces. The term generally revolves around the use of adhesives or sealants to bond or adhere one object to another. This can involve various types of gums, such as natural tree gums, synthetic adhesives, or sticky substances produced for specific purposes like denture adhesives or stamps.
Gumming can be used in several contexts. In crafts or DIY projects, gumming often involves applying glue or adhesives to stick materials together, such as paper, fabric, or wood. In the context of stamp collecting, gumming refers to the process of attaching stamps to envelopes or other collectible items using adhesive materials.
Furthermore, gumming can also have a negative connotation when it refers to the unwanted sticking or clogging of machinery, tools, or devices. For instance, if a printer gets jammed due to the sticking of adhesive residue, it can be described as gumming. In this sense, gumming often implies a hindrance or obstruction caused by unwanted adhesive build-up.
Overall, gumming encompasses a variety of actions involving the application of gum-like substances for bonding, sealing, or attaching objects together, either intentionally or unintentionally.
The word "gumming" shares its origin with the noun "gum", but is derived from a different meaning.
The noun "gum" comes from the Middle English word "gome", which meant the inside of the mouth or throat. This word can be traced back to the Old English word "gaman" meaning palate or gullet.
However, the verb "gum" in the context of "gumming" has a different etymology. It originates from the Old Norse word "gjómr" which meant to hinder or entangle. Over time, this word developed into "gumma" in Middle English, which meant to mumble or speak indistinctly or with a garbled sound. From there, it evolved into "gumming" in its present-day form, which refers to the act of toothless chewing or grinding food using only the gums.