Jaw — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms
Meaning & Definition of Jaw
Jaw (noun)
- either of two complex cartilaginous or bony structures in most vertebrates that border the mouth, support the soft parts enclosing it, usually bear teeth on their oral margin, and are an upper that is more or less firmly fused with the skull and a lower that is hinged, movable, and articulated with the temporal bone of either side
- the parts constituting the walls of the mouth and serving to open and close it —usually plural
- any of various organs of invertebrates that perform the function of the vertebrate jaws
Jaw (verb)
- to talk especially abusively, indignantly, or long-windedly
- to talk to in a scolding or boring manner
Word Forms of Jaw
Inflections: jawed, jawing, jaws
Derived words: jawless (adjective)
Origin & Etymology of Jaw
Middle English
First known use: 14th century
Words & Phrases Containing Jaw
Frequently Asked Questions about Jaw
What does "Jaw" mean?
"Jaw" means either of two complex cartilaginous or bony structures in most vertebrates that border the mouth, support the soft parts enclosing it, usually bear teeth on their oral margin, and are an upper that is more or less firmly fused with the skull and a lower that is hinged, movable, and articulated with the temporal bone of either side. As an a noun and a verb, it is defined as: either of two complex cartilaginous or bony structures in most vertebrates that border the mouth, support the soft parts enclosing it, usually bear teeth on their oral margin, and are an upper that is more or less firmly fused with the skull and a lower that is hinged, movable, and articulated with the temporal bone of either side. It has 5 distinct senses.
Is "Jaw" a noun, verb, or adjective?
"Jaw" can be used as a noun and a verb, depending on the context.
How do you pronounce "Jaw"?
"Jaw" is pronounced /ˈjȯ/.
What is the origin of the word "Jaw"?
"Jaw" comes from Middle English. First known use: 14th century.
What does "Jaw" mean as a noun?
As a noun, "Jaw" means: either of two complex cartilaginous or bony structures in most vertebrates that border the mouth, support the soft parts enclosing it, usually bear teeth on their oral margin, and are an upper that is more or less firmly fused with the skull and a lower that is hinged, movable, and articulated with the temporal bone of either side; the parts constituting the walls of the mouth and serving to open and close it —usually plural; any of various organs of invertebrates that perform the function of the vertebrate jaws.
What does "Jaw" mean as a verb?
As a verb, "Jaw" means: to talk especially abusively, indignantly, or long-windedly; to talk to in a scolding or boring manner.
What are the forms of "Jaw"?
The word forms of "Jaw" include jawed, jawing and jaws.
What words are derived from "Jaw"?
Words derived from "Jaw" include jawless (adjective).