jaw
/dʒɔː/
NOUN
1. The bone structure forming the mouth
Either of the two bones of the skull that form the framework of the mouth and support the teeth.
1.1. The upper or lower jawbone
The bony structure of the mouth that holds the teeth and enables biting and chewing.
Synonyms
Examples
- The dentist examined her jaw after she complained of pain while chewing.
- The animal has a powerful jaw capable of crushing bones.
- He fractured his lower jaw in the accident.
Related Words
- skull
- teeth
- gum
- mouth
- chin
- facial bone
- alveolar ridge
1.2. The lower part of the face
The area of the face below the mouth, particularly its shape, outline, or prominent bony structure.
Synonyms
- jawline
- jawbone
- jowl
- chin
Examples
- He has a strong, square jaw that gives his face a distinctive appearance.
- The injury left a noticeable swelling along her jaw.
- The artist carefully outlined the model's jaw in the portrait.
Related Words
NOUN
2. A movable gripping part of a tool or machine
One or both of a pair of opposing parts that move toward or away from each other to hold, grip, crush, or manipulate an object.
2.1. A gripping component of a mechanical device
A movable part of a tool or machine that clamps an object between opposing surfaces.
Synonyms
- clamp
- gripper
- vise jaw
- chuck jaw
- holding part
Examples
- The mechanic tightened the jaws of the vise around the metal pipe.
- The machine's jaws held the workpiece firmly in place.
- He adjusted the wrench jaws to fit the bolt.
Related Words
2.2. A notched or forked supporting part
A specially shaped or notched component designed to fit around, support, or hold another structure in position.
Synonyms
- notch
- fork
- saddle
Examples
- The jaws of the gaff fitted around the mast.
- The carpenter inspected the forked jaw of the supporting mechanism.
Related Words
NOUN
3. An opening or entrance resembling a mouth
An opening, entrance, or narrow passage whose shape or appearance resembles an open mouth or the jaws of an animal.
3.1. A mouthlike opening or passage
An entrance or opening, especially one formed by two opposing sides or resembling the open mouth of an animal.
Synonyms
Examples
- The narrow jaws of the cave entrance were barely wide enough for one person.
- The river flowed between the steep jaws of the gorge.
- The ship entered the harbor through the narrow jaws of the inlet.
Related Words
- cavity
- crevice
- gorge
- funnel
- estuary
- passage
- boundary
NOUN
4. Impudent, abusive, or excessive talk
Informal or offensive speech, especially talk that is insolent, argumentative, or unnecessarily critical.
4.1. Impudent or disrespectful speech
Rude, cheeky, or insulting remarks directed at someone, often in a defiant or disrespectful manner.
Synonyms
- backtalk
- lip
- sass
- cheek
- insolence
- impertinence
Antonyms
Examples
- The teacher would not tolerate any jaw from the students.
- He answered with a bit of cheeky jaw.
- The supervisor warned the employee to stop giving him backtalk.
Related Words
- attitude
- defiance
- rudeness
- disrespect
- retort
VERB
5. To talk or converse informally
To engage in casual, often prolonged or idle conversation.
5.1. Chatting or talking casually
Having an informal conversation, often about ordinary matters or without discussing anything particularly important.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- keep quiet
- remain silent
- be quiet
Examples
- The two old friends sat outside and jawed for hours.
- We spent the afternoon jawing about our recent travels.
- The neighbors often jaw with each other over the garden fence.
Related Words
- conversation
- discussion
- small talk
- exchange
- socialize
- gossip
5.2. Talking excessively or tiresomely
Talking at length, often in a rambling or irritating way, without getting to the point.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- keep silent
- be quiet
- stop talking
Examples
- He kept jawing about his achievements long after everyone had lost interest.
- The passengers jawed throughout the entire journey.
- Stop jawing and get back to work.
Related Words
VERB
6. To scold or criticize someone
To speak angrily or harshly to someone, expressing disapproval or reprimanding them for their behavior.
6.1. Reprimanding or scolding someone
Speaking to someone in an angry or disapproving manner to criticize their actions or behavior.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- praise
- commend
- approve
- compliment
Examples
- The coach jawed at the players for ignoring his instructions.
- His manager jawed him for arriving late again.
- The supervisor spent several minutes jawing at the careless worker.
Related Words
- criticism
- reproof
- reprimand
- admonition
- disapproval
- discipline