Pronunciation: [ɡˈʌm ˈʌp] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "gum up" is a little tricky. The "g" is pronounced as a hard "g" sound, like in "go" or "give." The "u" is pronounced as an "uh" sound, like in "up" or "but," and the "m" is pronounced as an "m" sound, like in "may" or "mat." The word "up" is easy enough, but the addition of the word "gum" can trip people up. Just remember to pronounce the "g" and the "u" separately, and you'll be able to say "gum up" perfectly!
"Gum up" is a phrasal verb used to describe the action of causing something to become blocked, obstructed, or ineffective due to the accumulation of sticky or adhesive material. The phrase originated from the visual imagery of gummy or sticky substances hindering the smooth functioning of a mechanism, process, or system.
In a literal sense, "gum up" can refer to the act of clogging up a machine, such as an engine or a printer, by the presence of sticky residue or debris. The sticky substance acts as an impediment, preventing the components from moving freely or working as intended. For instance, if a printer's ink cartridges are not properly maintained, dried ink can accumulate and gum up the printer's mechanisms, resulting in poor print quality or complete malfunction.
Figuratively, "gum up" is often used to describe situations where a process or situation becomes obstructed or muddled due to complications, inefficiencies, or obstructions. For example, in a business context, if excessive bureaucracy, red tape, or conflicting objectives hinder the smooth flow of operations, one might say that these factors are gumming up the organization's processes.
Overall, "gum up" encompasses the concept of hindrance or obstruction caused by the presence of sticky, adhesive, or problematic elements, whether physical or abstract. The phrase effectively conveys the idea of something becoming stuck, impeded, or ineffective due to the presence of sticky substances or complicated factors.
The phrase "gum up" is believed to have originated in the early 19th century. The term "gum" refers to a sticky substance, often derived from plants, which has been used historically for various purposes. "Gum up" essentially means to cause something to become sticky or clogged, typically by applying or spreading gum or a similar sticky substance.
The word "gum" itself comes from the Old English word "goma", meaning "the inside of the mouth" or "gums". Over time, it evolved to refer to other sticky substances like tree resin or adhesive materials.
The word "up" in this context adds emphasis to the action of gumming, indicating that something has become sticky, obstructed, or clogged to a great degree.
