What is jaw? How to use in English

Discover the meaning of jaw in English, its pronunciation, and how to use it correctly in real-life situations. See examples and easy memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of jaw

jawnoun

hàm

/dʒɔː//dʒɔː/

Where does the word jaw come from?

The word "jaw" has a long and fascinating history. The earliest known usage of the word "jaw" dates back to around 1300 AD, derived from the Old English word "gēo" or "gæo," meaning "cheek" or "face." Over time, the meaning of the word shifted to specifically refer to the bony structure at the bottom of the mouth. In Middle English (circa 1100-1500 AD), the word "jaw" referred to any part of the face, including the eyes, nose, and mouth. By the 15th century, the term had become specialized to describe the mandible, the lower jawbone. Today, the word "jaw" is widely used to describe the oral cavity, including the jawbone, muscles, and related structures. Despite its evolution, the word "jaw" remains etymologically connected to its Old English root, reflecting its longstanding relationship with the human face and oral anatomy.

Vocabulary summary jaw

typenoun

meaningjaw

exampleupper jaw

examplelower jaw

meaning(plural) mouth

examplein the jaws of death

meaning(plural) narrow entrance (to a valley, bay, strait...)

typeverb (slang)

meaningtalk long and boringly

exampleupper jaw

examplelower jaw

meaningteach, correct, "lecture" (someone), lecture (someone) for a while

examplein the jaws of death

Example of vocabulary jawnamespace

meaning

either of the two bones at the bottom of the face that contain the teeth and move when you talk or eat

  • the top/upper jaw
  • the bottom/lower jaw
  • She worked her lower jaw back and forth.
meaning

the lower part of the face; the lower jaw

  • He has a strong square jaw.
  • The punch broke my jaw.
meaning

the mouth and teeth of a person or an animal

  • The alligator's jaws snapped shut.
meaning

the parts of a tool or machine that are used to hold things tightly

  • the jaws of a vice

Synonyms and related words for jaw

Idioms of vocabulary jaw

somebody’s jaw dropped/fell/sagged
used to say that somebody suddenly looked surprised, shocked or disappointed
    the jaws of death, defeat, etc.
    (literary)used to describe an unpleasant situation that almost happens
    • They narrowly escaped from the jaws of death.
    the jaws of a tunnel, etc.
    the narrow entrance to a tunnel, etc., especially one that looks dangerous
      snatch victory from the jaws of defeat
      to win something even though it seemed up until the last moment that you would lose

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