Ham

Ham refers to a prepared meat product, traditionally from the hind legs of a pig, that is cured by salting, smoking, or other preservation methods. This results in a flavorful and long-lasting food source. Beyond the culinary definition, "ham" can also describe someone who exaggerates their acting in theater or performance, often being overly dramatic or attention-seeking. Figuratively, it can also imply being excessively enthusiastic or overdoing something, potentially causing embarrassment or annoyance. It also has some historical uses. Finally, in radio jargon it refers to radio operator or person who has a license to broadcast.

Ham meaning with examples

• For dinner, we enjoyed a delicious ham with pineapple and glazed carrots, a traditional holiday meal, the saltiness of the ham contrasted beautifully with the sweetness.
• The actress was accused of hamming up her role, her exaggerated expressions and gestures distracting from the play's central themes and characters, she needed to dial it back.
• He was hamming it up for the camera at the party, making silly faces and telling outlandish stories, drawing mixed reactions from the guests, mostly laughter.
• The old radio amateur was known to his friends as a 'ham' because he loved sending and receiving radio signals, and he was well versed in communications protocols and signals.
• He was known to ham it up when speaking, trying to get people’s attention.