muttonchops

plural noun

mut·​ton·​chops ˈmə-tᵊn-ˌchäps 

: side-whiskers that are narrow at the temple and broad and round by the lower jaws

called also muttonchop whiskers

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

From Mohawks to colorful muttonchops, guenons use these distinguishing features to avoid mating with the wrong monkey. —Carl Engelking, Discover Magazine, 27 June 2014

Ultimately, the show belongs to Hauser, who, with his childlike, sing-songy voice and Civil War muttonchops, is hauntingly brilliant. —Matthew Gilbert, BostonGlobe.com, 1 Dec. 2022

However, another Union general, Ambrose Burnside, had a set of muttonchops that other generals might have envied. —Mary Ann Ashcraft, baltimoresun.com/maryland/carroll, 10 July 2021

Berkman proved to be a shortish fellow with disconcertingly bushy muttonchops and a joshing, amiable demeanor. —Lawrence Weschler, The Atlantic, 7 Sep. 2020

Word History

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

muttonchops

noun plural

mut·​ton·​chops ˈmət-ᵊn-ˌchäps 

: whiskers framing a man's face that are narrow at the temple and broad and round by the lower jaws