First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
oakum
noun oa·kum \ˈō-kəm\
Definition of OAKUM
: loosely twisted hemp or jute fiber impregnated with tar or a tar derivative and used in caulking seams and packing joints
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Origin of OAKUM
Middle English okum, from Old English ācumba tow, from ā- (separative & perfective prefix) + -cumba (akin to Old English camb comb) — more at abide
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