DCHP-1 Online
gum ((n.)) 
1 n. a resinous substance exuded from certain evergreen trees, especially the spruce, as used for waterproofing the seams of birchbark canoes.
See also: birchbark canoe Indian pitch
- 1749 When the Canoe is made with two Pieces, then one Piece is sewed to the other with the Rind; the Inside and Outside of both which Pieces they dress with Gum, in such a Manner as to make them appear to be one Piece.
- 1830 (1954) . . . covering the seam with melted Pine Pitch, or "Gum," which rendered it perfectly water-tight.
- 1921 After a little burning, the stick opened like a fork; and, placing it over the broken seam, the voyageur blew upon the crotch, thus melting the hardened "gum"; then, spitting upon his palm, he rounded it off and smoothed it down.
- 1953 At each camp Itai-Po produced a gum pot and smeared cracks in his birchbark.
2 n. a rubber boot, reaching to just below the knee.
See also: gumboot (def. 1)
- 1912 If ever I get to a town I'm to take the outside of the sidewalk, wipe my gums on the mat, and wash before I use them roller towels.
- 1749 When the Canoe is made with two Pieces, then one Piece is sewed to the other with the Rind; the Inside and Outside of both which Pieces they dress with Gum, in such a Manner as to make them appear to be one Piece.