Chummage

/ˈtʃʌm.ɪdʒ/ noun

Definition

The practice of sharing a room with a roommate, or the fee paid for sharing living quarters.

Etymology

From 'chum' (a close friend or roommate) plus the suffix '-age.' 'Chum' itself likely comes from 'chamber-mate,' originally meaning someone you shared a bedroom with, evolving to mean close friend.

Kelly Says

Before dorms as we know them, university students would split 'chummage' fees—the word literally describes paying to share a room, which is why your college roommate became your best friend or worst enemy.

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