Meaning of the word mandible in English

What does mandible mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

mandible

US /ˈmæn.də.bəl/

UK /ˈmæn.dɪ.bəl/

the jaw or a jawbone, especially in mammals the lower jawbone

Example:

•

The paleontologist carefully examined the fossilized mandible of the ancient creature.

•

A broken mandible can make eating and speaking very difficult.

Synonym:

jaw jawbone lower jaw

either half of the crushing organ in the mouthparts of an insect or other arthropod

Example:

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The beetle uses its strong mandibles to chew through wood.

•

Ants have powerful mandibles for carrying food and digging tunnels.

Synonym:

jaw mouthpart