OpenSynonym

jaws

/dʒɔːz/

NOUN

1. The bones forming the framework of the mouth

The upper and lower bones of the mouth that support the teeth and enable biting, chewing, and speaking.

1.1. The upper and lower jawbones

The bony structures of the mouth that hold the teeth and form the framework of the lower part of the face.

Synonyms

Examples

  • The shark's powerful jaws can crush the shells of large prey.
  • The doctor examined his jaws after the accident.
  • The fossil revealed the well-preserved jaws of an ancient animal.

Related Words

  • teeth
  • skull
  • mouth
  • chin
  • jawline
  • gums
  • alveolar ridge

1.2. The mouth or oral opening

The mouth or its opening, especially when emphasizing the biting or grasping action of an animal's jaws.

Synonyms

  • mouths
  • maws
  • gobs
  • muzzles
  • traps

Examples

  • The crocodile opened its jaws wide to seize its prey.
  • The animal's jaws closed around the food.
  • The predator's enormous jaws revealed rows of sharp teeth.

Related Words

NOUN

2. Mouthlike openings or entrances

Openings, entrances, or passages resembling the mouth or jaws of an animal, particularly those formed by two opposing sides.

2.1. An entrance or opening

A mouthlike opening through which something enters or exits, such as the entrance to a river, harbor, cave, or passage.

Synonyms

Examples

  • The narrow jaws of the gorge towered above the river.
  • The ships passed through the jaws of the harbor.
  • The cave's dark jaws opened into an underground passage.

Related Words

2.2. A notch or forked supporting part

A notched or forked component designed to fit around, support, or hold another object in position.

Synonyms

Examples

  • The jaws of the boom fitted around the mast.
  • The mechanic inspected the forked jaws of the supporting assembly.

Related Words

2.3. Opposing gripping parts of a tool or machine

Two movable parts of a mechanical device that close toward each other to grip, hold, crush, or manipulate an object.

Synonyms

  • clamps
  • grippers
  • holding devices
  • vise jaws
  • chuck jaws

Examples

  • The machine's jaws held the metal component firmly.
  • The mechanic tightened the vise jaws around the pipe.
  • The wrench's jaws were adjusted to fit the bolt.

Related Words

NOUN

3. Impudent or abusive talk

Rude, insolent, or abusive speech, especially remarks expressing disrespect, criticism, or defiance.

3.1. Disrespectful or insolent remarks

Cheeky, argumentative, or disrespectful speech directed at someone, often in response to authority or criticism.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • The teacher refused to tolerate any jaws from the disruptive students.
  • The manager was tired of hearing the employees' backchat and insolent remarks.

Related Words

  • defiance
  • rudeness
  • disrespect
  • retort
  • attitude

VERB

4. Talking or conversing

Engaging in conversation, particularly informal, prolonged, or casual talking.

4.1. Chatting or having an informal conversation

Talking casually with someone, often about everyday matters or topics of mutual interest.

Synonyms

Antonyms

  • remain silent
  • keep quiet
  • say nothing

Examples

  • The two friends jawed about their childhood memories.
  • The neighbors often jaw with one another over the garden fence.
  • They spent the afternoon jawing about local news.

Related Words

  • conversation
  • chitchat
  • small talk
  • discussion
  • socializing
  • exchange

4.2. Talking excessively or aimlessly

Speaking continuously or at unnecessary length, often in a rambling, tedious, or unproductive manner.

Synonyms

Antonyms

  • keep silent
  • speak briefly
  • be concise

Examples

  • He jaws endlessly about subjects nobody finds interesting.
  • The passengers jawed throughout the entire journey.
  • The speaker continued to jaw long after the meeting had ended.

Related Words

VERB

5. Scolding or verbally attacking someone

Addressing someone angrily or abusively, especially by criticizing, reprimanding, or expressing strong disapproval.

5.1. Reprimanding or scolding someone

Speaking angrily or critically to someone to express disapproval of their behavior or actions.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • The coach jawed at the players for ignoring his instructions.
  • The supervisor jawed the employee for repeatedly arriving late.
  • The manager jawed at the staff during the heated disagreement.

Related Words

5.2. Verbally attacking or denouncing someone

Using harsh, insulting, or aggressive language to attack, condemn, or criticize another person.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • The politician jawed at his critics during the public debate.
  • The angry customer jawed the staff over the poor service.
  • The opponents continued jawing at each other after the match.

Related Words