jaw

The word “jaw” means either of the two bones that frame the mouth and hold the teeth. In plain terms, the bone structure of the mouth and chin area, or (informally) talking a lot.

“Jaw” is pronounced jaw (/d͡ʒɔ/ in IPA).

Here is “jaw” used in a sentence: “The boxer took a hard punch to the jaw.”

Depending on how it is used, “jaw” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “jaw” comes from Old English. Origin disputed — likely from Anglo-Norman "jowe" (cheek), though some trace it to Old English roots related to "chaw" and "chew.".

“Jaw” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

“Jaw” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: either of the two bones that frame the mouth and hold the teeth.

In anatomy, the upper jaw is the maxilla and the lower jaw is the mandible. The mandible is the movable one, dropping and rising as you speak and chew, while the maxilla is fixed to the skull.

The jaw refers to the bones that frame the mouth and hold the teeth, or more loosely to the whole lower part of the face. The chin is only the small area at the very front, below the lower lip. Your chin sits on your jaw, but the jaw extends back towards the ears.

In informal English, jaw can be a verb meaning to talk at length, especially idly or in an argument: 'they sat jawing for hours'. As a noun it can likewise mean chatter or talk. Both uses are casual and slightly old-fashioned, so they are best kept out of formal writing.