subdict-logo

jaw

Definition

  • noun: either one of the two bones of the face where teeth grow
  • noun: either of two complex cartilaginous or bony structures in most vertebrates that border the mouth, support the soft parts enclosing it, usually bear teeth on their oral margin, and are an upper that is more or less firmly fused with the skull and a lower that is hinged, movable, and articulated with the temporal bone of either side
  • verb: to talk in an angry way or for a very long time
  • verb: to talk especially abusively, indignantly, or long-windedly
  • often used figuratively
  • synonyms: scold, clamor, mouth

Examples

  • The team was able to snatch victory from 'the jaws of defeat' [=the team won] by scoring in the final seconds of the game.

  • He barely escaped from 'the jaws of death'. [=he barely escaped death]

  • The crocodile tried to grab him in its 'jaws'. [='mouth']

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) pains and was taken to the dispensary. His restraints were removed for an EKG. When the nurse leaned over him, he did this to her. The doctors managed to reset her jaw, more or less, save one of her eyes. His pulse never got above , even when he ate her tongue. - I keep him in here. - Dr Chilton. (..)
    1991 The Silence of the Lambs