A natural gum traditionally used for making chewing gum.

Origin: The word "chicle" comes from the Nahuatl word "tzictli," referring to the gum from the sapodilla tree. It was adopted into Spanish during the colonial period as the product became known in Europe.
Historical and Cultural Context: Chicle has been used by indigenous peoples of Mesoamerica for centuries. The first known references appear in ancient texts describing its use by the Aztecs and Maya as a way to clean teeth and freshen breath.
Evolution: The word entered the English language in the late 19th century as the demand for chewing gum grew. In English, "chicle" specifically refers to the raw material used in gum production. Related terms in other languages, like "chiclet" in Portuguese, share similar roots.
Modern Relevance: Today, synthetic materials largely replace chicle in commercial gum production, but the word persists in various brands and colloquial uses, especially in Spanish-speaking countries.

The popular gum brand Chiclets derives its name directly from "chicle," highlighting the original natural gum base used in its production.