CultureAugust 17, 2026

mandible

MAN-duh-bul

Definition

The technical or scientific term for the lower jawbone.

Etymology

The word originates from the Latin 'mandibula', which means 'jaw' or 'that which is used for chewing', derived from the verb 'mandere' meaning 'to chew'.

In the news

Brendan O'Carroll mentions his two fractures in his mandible to explain the specific injury requiring surgery and the subsequent cancellation of his show's filming.

Mrs Brown's Boys Christmas specials cancelled after star breaks jaw

Read the full article ↗

BBC

Related words

agora

The central open-air marketplace and civic gathering place in an ancient Greek city-state.

Culture

altarpiece

A work of art, such as a painting or sculpture, designed to be placed above or behind an…

Culture

amphorae

Tall, ancient Greek or Roman jars with two handles and a narrow neck, often used for…

Culture

archon

A high-ranking political or religious magistrate in ancient Greece.

Culture

assimilationist

Relating to or advocating for a policy of pressuring minority groups or indigenous…

Culture

auditoria

The plural form of auditorium; large public spaces or halls used for lectures,…

Culture

Learn words like this every day

Meet new words every morning.

Newspoken pulls carefully chosen words from the day’s news — with clear definitions, context, and light review that makes them stick. Get it on your phone.