chum
UK: tʃʌm | US: tʃʌm
n. a close friend or companion
n. bait used for fishing (e.g., chopped fish)
vt. to act as a friend or companion
vt. to scatter bait in water to attract fish
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The word "chum" first appeared in English in the late 17th century as a term for a roommate or close friend, possibly derived from "chamber-fellow" (shortened to "cham" and later altered to "chum"). Its fishing-related meaning emerged later, likely influenced by the idea of "companionship" among fish drawn to bait. The dual meanings reflect colloquial evolution rather than clear morphemic structure.
He’s been my chum since primary school.
The fishermen dumped chum into the water to lure sharks.
She always chums around with her coworkers after hours.
Old college chums often reunite at alumni events.
The boat’s crew prepared buckets of chum for the fishing trip.