lantern jaw

noun

: an undershot jaw

lantern-jawed

ˈlan-tərn-ˌjȯd

adjective

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Their quarterback was a senior from Ferndale, Wash., with a lantern jaw and a laser-rocket right arm. —

Jeff Duncan, NOLA.com, 11 Feb. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'lantern jaw.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

First Known Use

1711, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of lantern jaw was in 1711

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Lantern jaw.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lantern%20jaw. Accessed 23 Mar. 2023.

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