noun
Uncommon
jaws
jawz
Jaws (noun) means the mouth, especially when described as threatening or wide open. Example: “The shark's jaws snapped shut around its prey.”
noun
1
The mouth, especially when described as threatening or wide open.
"The shark's jaws snapped shut around its prey."
"They escaped from the jaws of defeat."
2
The mouth-like opening or edge of something.
"The climber wedged himself into the jaws of the canyon."
How to use jaws
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe mouth (usually of an animal), or a narrow opening that looks like one.
Common pairings
jaws of death
jaws of defeat
snap its jaws
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The shark's _____ snapped shut around its prey.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for jaws
See all rhymes for jaws →Frequently asked questions
What does “jaws” mean?
The word “jaws” means the mouth, especially when described as threatening or wide open. In plain terms, the mouth (usually of an animal), or a narrow opening that looks like one.
How do you pronounce “jaws”?
“Jaws” is pronounced jawz (/d͡ʒɔːz/ in IPA).
How do you use “jaws” in a sentence?
Here is “jaws” used in a sentence: “The shark's jaws snapped shut around its prey.”
What part of speech is “jaws”?
“Jaws” is a noun.
Is “jaws” a common word?
“Jaws” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “jaws” have?
“Jaws” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the mouth, especially when described as threatening or wide open.
Is 'jaws' always used in the plural?
Yes, jaws is conventionally used in its plural form even when referring to a single mouth or mouth-like structure. It is rarely, if ever, used as a singular 'jaw' when describing the whole structure in this collective sense.
Can 'jaws' refer to something other than an animal's mouth?
Yes, jaws can also describe the mouth-like opening or gripping edge of an object or machine, such as the jaws of a vise or a pair of pliers. This extends the literal anatomical meaning to mechanical parts that open and close.
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