IPA: /tɒm/
KK: /tɑm/
A male animal, especially a male cat or turkey.
The farmer raised a tom turkey for the Thanksgiving feast.
The word 'tom' originates from the Hebrew name 'Tammuz', which refers to a young man or a son. It is often used as a diminutive or affectionate form of the name Thomas, meaning twin.
Think of 'Tammuz' as a name that means a young man or son, which helps you remember that 'tom' is often used as a friendly or familiar name for a boy.