jaw

jaw

noun \ˈjȯ\

Definition of JAW

1

: either of two complex cartilaginous or bony structures in most vertebrates that border the mouth, support the soft parts enclosing it, and usually bear teeth on their oral margin: a : an upper structure more or less firmly fused with the skull—called also upper jaw, maxilla b : a lower structure that consists of a single bone or of completely fused bones and that is hinged, movable, and articulated by a pair of condyles with the temporal bone of either side—called also inferior maxillary bone, lower jaw, mandible

2

: the parts constituting the walls of the mouth and serving to open and close it—usually used in plural

3

: any of various organs of invertebrates that perform the function of the vertebrate jaws