(dam) noun
1. A barrier to check the flow of a stream.
2. The water held up by a dam.
3. Any barrier for preventing the passage of water, air, or gas.
4. Figuratively, any obstruction.
—v.t. dammed, dam·ming
1. To erect a dam in; stop or obstruct by a dam.
2. To keep back; restrain: with up or in. [<MDu. damm]

(dam) noun
A female parent: said of animals. [Var. of dame]

(däm), (Carl Peter) Henrik,
1895–1976, Danish biochemist.