chew
About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.
About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.1chew
verb \ˈchü\Definition of CHEW
transitive verb
1
: to crush, grind, or gnaw (as food) with or as if with the teeth : masticate
2
: to injure, destroy, or consume as if by chewing —usually used with up <chewing up profits>
intransitive verb
: to chew something; specifically : to chew tobacco
— chew·able \-ə-bəl\ adjective
— chew·er noun
— chewy \ˈchü-ē\ adjective
— chew on
: to think about : ponder <chewing on the new developments>
— chew the fat also chew the rag
: to make friendly familiar conversation : chat
See Examples of CHEW
- We were taught to chew our food thoroughly before swallowing.
- He chews with his mouth open.
- You're not allowed to chew gum in class.
- A mouse chewed through the cord.
- The dog chewed a hole in the rug.
Origin of CHEW
Middle English, from Old English cēowan; akin to Old High German kiuwan to chew, Russian zhevat'
First Known Use: before 12th century
Related to CHEW
- Synonyms
- champ, chaw, bite (on), chomp (on), crunch (on), gnaw (on), masticate, nibble
2chew
nounDefinition of CHEW
1
: the act of chewing
2
: something for chewing
First Known Use of CHEW
13th century
Learn More About CHEW
Seen & Heard 
What made you want to look up chew? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
