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

Relevance

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
  • The Guardians had a runner on first with one out in the third when second baseman Ben Williamson robbed DeLauter of a hit that prevented a first-and-third jam.
    — Rob Maaddi, Los Angeles Times, 13 Oct. 2026
  • Besides her own headlining set, karaoke queen Clarkson is sure to be asked to stick around for the festival’s traditional closing night jam of all-1990s covers.
    — Chris Willman, Variety, 13 Oct. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Jam-up.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/jam-up. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!