Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
gum-up-the-works
idiom
ɡʌm ʌp ðə wɜrks
Definition
To cause a situation or process to become ineffective or inefficient by obstructing it.
Examples
- If we don’t solve this issue, it could gum up the works for the entire project.
- The malfunctioning machine is gumming up the works in the factory.
Meaning
This phrase is commonly used to describe how something can interfere with normal operations or functioning, leading to delays or errors.
Synonyms
- hinder operations
- interfere
- obstruct
