The Collaborative International Dictionary
Jaw \Jaw\ (j[add]), n. [A modification of chaw, formed under the influence of F. joue the cheek. See Chaw, Chew.]
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(Anat.)
One of the bones, usually bearing teeth, which form the framework of the mouth.
Hence, also, the bone itself with the teeth and covering.
In the plural, the mouth.
Fig.: Anything resembling the jaw of an animal in form or action; esp., pl., the mouth or way of entrance; as, the jaws of a pass; the jaws of darkness; the jaws of death.
--Shak.-
(Mach.)
A notch or opening.
A notched or forked part, adapted for holding an object in place; as, the jaw of a railway-car pedestal. See Axle guard. (b) One of a pair of opposing parts which are movable towards or from each other, for grasping or crushing anything between them, as, the jaws of a vise, or the jaws of a stone-crushing machine.
(Naut.) The inner end of a boom or gaff, hollowed in a half circle so as to move freely on a mast.
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Impudent or abusive talk. [Slang]
--H. Kingsley.Syn: lip.
Jaw bit (Railroad), a bar across the jaws of a pedestal underneath an axle box.
Jaw breaker, a word difficult to pronounce. [Obs.]
Jaw rope (Naut.), a rope which holds the jaws of a gaff to the mast.
Jaw tooth, a molar or grinder; a back tooth.