\Jaw\, n. [A modification of chaw, formed under the
influence of F. joue the cheek. See {Chaw}, {Chew}.]
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.
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.
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.
4. (Naut.) The inner end of a boom or gaff, hollowed in a
   half circle so as to move freely on a mast.
5. Impudent or abusive talk. [Slang] --H. Kingsley.
{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.

\Jaw\, v. i. [imp. & p. p. {Jawed}; p. pr. & vb. n.
{Jawing}.]
To scold; to clamor. [Law]

\Jaw\, v. t.
To assail or abuse by scolding. [Law]