lower jaw
The 'lower jaw' or mandible is a crucial bone in vertebrates, responsible for movements essential to chewing and speaking.
🇺🇸 US Voice:
🇬🇧 UK Voice:
Definition
B2Anatomy
(technical)The bone forming the lower part of the skull, holding the lower teeth and enabling mouth movement.
Example
- The dentist examined the patient's lower jaw for any signs of infection.
- In humans, the lower jaw is the only movable bone of the skull.
B2Biology
(technical)The structure in vertebrates that forms the lower portion of the mouth, aiding in chewing and speaking.
Example
- The lower jaw of a crocodile is powerful enough to crush bones.
- Fish have a lower jaw that helps them capture and eat their prey.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "lower jaw":