Jaw

/d͡ʒɔː/ · noun

Meaning

One of the bones, usually bearing teeth, which form the framework of the mouth..

Definitions by Sense

1. One of the bones, usually bearing teeth, which form the framework of the mouth.
2. The part of the face below the mouth.
3. (figuratively, especially in the plural) Anything resembling the jaw (sense 1) of an animal in form or action; the mouth or way of entrance.
4. A notch or opening.
5. A notched or forked part, adapted for holding an object in place.
6. One of a pair of opposing parts which are movable towards or from each other, for grasping or crushing anything between them.
7. (nautical) The inner end of a boom or gaff, hollowed in a half circle so as to move freely on a mast.
8. (slang, dated) Impudent, abusive, or worthless talk.

Example Sentences

His jaw dropped in amazement.

I'm up and jaws are on the floor Lovers in the bathroom and a line outside the door

the jaws of a pass; the jaws of darkness; the jaws of death.

the jaw of a railway-car pedestal.

the jaws of a vise; the jaws of a stone-crushing machine.

Give me the boy, now, and no more of your jaw. I am going to take the boy home with me.

"A lot you care," said Digory fiercely. "But I'm sick of this jaw. What have I got to do?"

1933, Ethel Lina White, The Spiral Staircase (Some Must Watch), Chapter 4, http://gutenberg.net.au/ebooks03/0300931.txt He built the Summit, so as to have no neighbours. And Lady Warren couldn't abide It. She was always jawing him about it, and they had one awful quarrel, in his study.

Synonyms for jaw

Antonyms for jaw

Related Words

Word Forms

• jaws
• jawing
• jawed

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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