Gummiferous

/ɡʌˈmɪfərəs/ adjective

Definition

Producing or yielding gum; bearing gum as a natural product.

Etymology

From Latin 'gummi' (gum) plus '-ferous,' derived from 'ferre' meaning 'to bear or carry.' This suffix appears in words like 'coniferous' and 'pestiferous.'

Kelly Says

Many trees are gummiferous—they produce gum (and resins) as a defense mechanism against insects and to seal wounds, which is why frankincense and myrrh trees were so valuable historically.

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