tom

¹ American  

[tom] / tɒm /

noun

1. the male of various animals, as the turkey.

2. a tomcat.

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Tom ² American  

[tom] / tɒm /

noun

1. Uncle Tom.

2. a male given name, form of Thomas.

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verb (used without object)

Tommed, Tomming

1. (often lowercase) to act like an Uncle Tom.

ToM ³ American  

Or TOM

abbreviation

1. theory of mind.

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tom ¹ British  

/ tɒm /

noun

1. 1. the male of various animals, esp the cat

   2. ( as modifier )

      a tom turkey

   3. ( in combination )

      a tomcat

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tom ² British  

/ tɒm /

noun

1. a temporary supporting post

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Tom Idioms  

1. see every tom, dick, and harry; peeping tom.

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Etymology

Origin of tom

First recorded in 1755–65; generic use of the male given name Tom

Example Sentences

It also shines in fish stews and soups of all kinds, from cacciucco to tom kha gai to cioppino or caldeirada.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2025

On party nights, the eight friends arrive early to enjoy an off-menu vegan tom kha soup prepared by Jamie, with plenty of leftovers for the rest of the week.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2024

Tiravanija’s early relational pieces — offering curry and tom ka soup, sodas and beers, grass mats and pillows for weary visitors — appeared as museums increasingly promoted the politics of multiculturalism.

From New York Times • Dec. 21, 2023

Bush offered a public assurance, saying, “this fine tom turkey, that he will not end up on anyone’s dinner table.”

From Washington Times • Nov. 21, 2023

When she died it was in the same way, without a struggle, so that although we grieved for her our hearts were not tom by her suffering.

From "Nectar in a Sieve" by Kamala Markandaya

Related Words

• kitten
• kitty