Definition of jam-upnext
as in jam
a crowded mass (as of cars) that impedes or blocks movement knowing that there was a big traffic jam-up ahead, we took the detour that the locals always use

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of jam-up Without enough beds for continuing care outside the hospital, the jam-up ripples back to that ER hallway. — Tom Wolzien, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Mar. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for jam-up
jam
Noun
  • Hines put back a Mullins miss from beyond the arc with a one-handed jam and Landrew went on a personal 11-3 run with makes from all three levels.
    — Joe Arruda, Hartford Courant, 28 Oct. 2026
  • The savory vol-au-vent with pear and onion jam, tart tamarind and pecorino cheese is ambitious, but the pastry itself was a bit heavy, the layers not quite flaky enough for the abundant stuffing.
    — Louisa Kung Liu Chu, Chicago Tribune, 27 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Jam-up.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/jam-up. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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