from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Jaw \Jaw\ (j[add]), n. [A modification of chaw, formed under the
influence of F. joue the cheek. See {Chaw}, {Chew}.]
[1913 Webster]
1. (Anat.)
(a) One of the bones, usually bearing teeth, which form
the framework of the mouth.
(b) Hence, also, the bone itself with the teeth and
covering.
(c) In the plural, the mouth.
[1913 Webster]
2. Fig.: Anything resembling the jaw of an animal in form or
action; esp., pl., the mouth or way of entrance; as, the
jaws of a pass; the jaws of darkness; the jaws of death.
--Shak.
[1913 Webster]
3. (Mach.)
(a) A notch or opening.
(b) A notched or forked part, adapted for holding an
object in place; as, the jaw of a railway-car
pedestal. See {Axle guard}.
(b) One of a pair of opposing parts which are movable
towards or from each other, for grasping or crushing
anything between them, as, the jaws of a vise, or the
jaws of a stone-crushing machine.
[1913 Webster]
4. (Naut.) The inner end of a boom or gaff, hollowed in a
half circle so as to move freely on a mast.
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5. Impudent or abusive talk. [Slang] --H. Kingsley.
Syn: lip.
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{Jaw bit} (Railroad), a bar across the jaws of a pedestal
underneath an axle box.
{Jaw breaker}, a word difficult to pronounce. [Obs.]
{Jaw rope} (Naut.), a rope which holds the jaws of a gaff to
the mast.
{Jaw tooth}, a molar or grinder; a back tooth.
[1913 Webster]