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
  • And for options that can please any giftee on your list, check out gourmet food calendars filled with decadent chocolates, loose-leaf teas, jams and jellies, and more.
    — Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 20 Oct. 2026
  • Released digitally in March, the song grew out of a guitar jam between the two friends.
    — Russ Penuell, Billboard, 16 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 22 Oct. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

More from Merriam-Webster