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Chewed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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chewed

[tʃuːd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

action of eating

Chewed is the past tense of the verb 'chew,' which refers to the process of breaking down food in the mouth using the teeth. This action is essential for digestion, as it helps to reduce the size of food particles and mix them with saliva, facilitating easier swallowing and nutrient absorption. Chewing also plays a role in taste perception, allowing individuals to experience the flavor of food more fully. It can be used in both literal and figurative contexts, such as 'chewed over' an idea.

Synonyms

gnaw, grind, masticate.

Examples of usage

  • He chewed his food slowly.
  • She chewed on a pencil while thinking.
  • The dog chewed the toy into pieces.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Health

  • Chewing aids in digestion by breaking down food into smaller pieces for the stomach.
  • Saliva produced while chewing contains enzymes that start the digestion process as soon as you begin to eat.

Animal Behavior

  • Many animals, including cows and horses, are known to chew their food thoroughly – cows even 'chew the cud' to aid digestion.
  • Certain animals, like rabbits, rely on chewing to wear down their continuously growing teeth.

Cultural Practices

  • In some cultures, chewing certain leaves or herbs is a traditional practice for medicinal purposes.
  • Chewing gum is a popular pastime in many parts of the world, often associated with fresh breath and relaxation.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that chewing can reduce stress and improve concentration, which is why some people chew gum while working.
  • Children often learn to chew properly through play, making it a developmental milestone in early childhood.

Origin of 'chewed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'chew' comes from the Old English 'ceowan', which means to bite and grind food.
  • It shares roots with similar words in other languages, such as the German 'kauen' and Dutch 'kauwen'.

The word 'chewed' comes from the Old English word 'ceowan,' which means to chew or to eat. This etymology is rooted in Germanic languages, where similar words appear, such as the Dutch 'kauwen' and the German 'kauen.' The transition of the word into its modern form reflects changes in phonetics and usage over centuries. Its base form 'chew' has been used since at least the 12th century, and the past participle 'chewed' indicates an action completed in the past. The process of chewing itself has been crucial in human evolution, enabling our ancestors to consume a wider variety of foods and extract necessary nutrients more effectively. As language evolved, so did the contextual meanings of the word, leading to idiomatic expressions like 'chewing the fat,' which means to engage in casual conversation.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,580, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.