chew

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

Examples of CHEW

1. We were taught to chew our food thoroughly before swallowing.
2. He chews with his mouth open.
3. You're not allowed to chew gum in class.
4. A mouse chewed through the cord.
5. 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

Related Words: ruminate; munch, nosh, snack; consume, eat, ingest, swallow; bolt, devour, gobble (up or down), gorge, gulp, scarf, scoff, snack, wolf; nip, peck (at), pick (at); gum, mumble

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