noun / verb
jaw
JAW/dʒɔː/
A movable mouth structure that closes against another for biting.
The lower jaw curves beneath the teeth and rises on both sides.
Etymology
Middle English jowe already meant “bones of the mouth.” It probably comes from Old French joue, “cheek,” but sound difficulties leave that origin uncertain; a connection with “chew” is another possibility.
In context
cementum is the material that anchors teeth to the jaw
More examples
- My jaw aches after chewing tough steak.
- The vise's jaws hold the pipe firmly.
- We jaw about the game over coffee.
Forms
jaw · jaws · jawed · jawing
jawbone noun — A bone forming part of the jaw.
Similar words
- mandible
- Specifically the lower jaw, rather than either opposing mouth structure.