mandible

noun

Definition of mandiblenext
as in maxilla

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of mandible Because the two halves of the mandible had not yet joined, the creature would have been physically incapable of eating on its own. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 9 Apr. 2026 The man, named Bawrgiyo Jaw, is possessed of a tremendous mandible, and the black tips of his spectacles loop over the tops of ears that enclose a full head of black hair. — Literary Hub, 19 Feb. 2026 On April 10 of this year, the dog was found with another bone — a femur this time — in the yard, and a search of the property also turned up a human mandible, or jawbone, that also belonged to the same victim. — David Chiu, PEOPLE, 25 Dec. 2025 That same year, DNA analysis revealed that a tooth recovered from a mandible at one of the relevant archaeological sites was that of Captain James Fitzjames of the HMS Erebus. — ArsTechnica, 8 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for mandible
Recent Examples of Synonyms for mandible
maxilla
Noun
  • Referencing a maxilla fragment found in Misliya Cave, Israel, one study dated it between 180,000 and 190,000 years ago.
    — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 14 June 2026
  • The jugal bone, or what could be called the cheekbone, and the maxilla, or jawbone, are fused, Bertozzo said.
    — Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 17 Sep. 2025
Definition of maxilla

Browse Nearby Words

mandatory
mandible
mandibles
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Cite this Entry

“Mandible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mandible. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on mandible

Nglish: Translation of mandible for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about mandible

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