alums
|a-lums|
B2
/əˈlʌmz/
(alum)
chemical compound; former student
Etymology
Etymology Information
'alum' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'alumen', where 'alumen' meant 'bitter salt'.
Historical Evolution
'alumen' transformed into the Old French word 'alun', and eventually became the modern English word 'alum' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'bitter salt', but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'a chemical compound' and 'a former student'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural form of 'alum', referring to graduates or former students of a school, college, or university.
The university invited all its alums to the annual reunion.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/07/06 11:51