Synonyms for

Jaws

Verb / dʒɔ:z / Another word for jaws — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Jaws are the two bones in your mouth that hold your teeth.

Synonyms & similar words

masticate rag chewthefat callonthecarpet manducate bawlout yapaway dressdown rattleon shootthebreeze natter visit lecture lambast berate claver havewords reprimand gossip chide yack chew remonstrate confab trounce mandible jawbone maxilla gnathos mandibula ramus mandibulae

Synonyms by register

Formal

mandibles maxilla maxillae

Informal

trap claws grip

Literary

maw gullet

Antonyms

mouth lips smile grin beam

Common collocations

  • jaws of life
  • upper jaw
  • lower jaw
  • snap shut
  • gnash teeth
  • open jaws
  • jawbone

Word family

noun jaw

Usage note

The word 'jaws' most commonly refers to the bones of the mouth, but can also be used figuratively to describe a powerful grip or enclosure.

Example sentences

  1. I have a sore jaw after going to the dentist.
  2. The shark's jaws can open very wide to eat their prey.
  3. She broke her jaw in a skiing accident.
  4. The dinosaur's jaws were incredibly strong.
  5. My dog loves to chew on bones with his strong jaws.

Quotes

  • I think I'll never forget this movie, 'Jaws', because I'm still scared of going into the ocean.
  • I'm like a shark; I have to keep moving. I'm not happy unless I'm moving and doing something.
  • The ocean is like a checking account where everybody withdraws but nobody makes a deposit. This is what's happening because of overfishing.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words