jaw 1
— jawless , adj.
/jaw/ , n.
1. either of two bones, the mandible or maxilla, forming the framework of the mouth.
2. the part of the face covering these bones, the mouth, or the mouth parts collectively: My jaw is swollen.
3. jaws , anything resembling a pair of jaws or evoking the concept of grasping and holding: the jaws of a gorge; the jaws of death.
4. Mach.
a. one of two or more parts, as of a machine, that grasp or hold something: the jaws of a vise.
b. any of two or more protruding parts for attaching to or meshing with similar parts.
5. Often, jaws . Also called throat . Naut. a forked piece at the end of a gaff, fitting halfway around the mast.
6. Slang.
a. idle talk; chatter.
b. impertinent talk.
v.i.
7. Slang.
a. to talk; chat; gossip.
b. to scold or use abusive language.
v.t.
8. Slang. to scold.
[ 1325-75; ME jawe, jowe joue; orig. uncert. ]
jaw 2
/jaw/ , Scot. and North Eng.
n.
1. a swelling wave of water; billow.
v.i.
2. (of liquid) to surge, splash, or dash forward, as in waves.
v.t.
3. to pour or splash (liquid).
[ 1505-15; perh. akin to JAUP ]