jaw
UK[dʒɔː]US[dʒɑː]
n
Either of the two bones in your mouth that contain your teeth and move when you talk or eat.
n
The lower part of your face, especially the lower jaw.
n
The narrow part of an opening or container that grips or holds something.
Etymology
The word 'jaw' originates from Middle English 'jawe' or 'jowe', a term of uncertain but likely imitative or expressive origin. It is related to Old French 'joue', meaning 'cheek', though the ultimate source may be a Germanic root conveying a sense of 'to chew' or 'to devour'. This etymological journey reflects a common pattern where body part names evolve from simple, often onomatopoeic or action-describing roots. Over time, the meaning narrowed and stabilized to refer specifically to the bony structure framing the mouth, central to the functions of speech and mastication.
Analysis
This word is a simplex form, a tight Germanic root not productively divisible into smaller, meaningful morphemes within modern English spelling.
Examples
He broke his jaw in the accident.
She rested her chin in the palm of her hand, a thoughtful look on her face.
The wrench's jaw was not wide enough to grip the pipe.