cotton gum

noun

1. any of several tupelo trees, especially Nyssa aquatica.

Word History and Origins

Origin of cotton gum¹

An Americanism dating back to 1855–60; so called from the cottonlike hairs of its seeds

Example Sentences

The tupelo gum, or cotton gum, Nyssa aquatica L., is found in deep river swamps which are flooded during a part of the year.

From Project Gutenberg

Twigs are indicated in clammy locust, cotton gum, winged elm.

From Project Gutenberg