Jawed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
ðĶ·
jawed
[dĘÉd ]
Definition
anatomy, biology
Jawed refers to animals that possess a jaw, specifically those in the subphylum Vertebrata. This anatomical structure is crucial for their feeding mechanisms and overall biology, distinguishing them from jawless species.
Synonyms
jawed animal, vertebrate.
Examples of usage
- Jawed vertebrates exhibit a significant diversity in feeding strategies.
- The jawed fishes have evolved various adaptations for predation.
- Some jawed animals have powerful jaws that can crush bones.
Translations
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Origin of 'jawed'
The term 'jawed' originates from the noun 'jaw,' which has its roots in Old English 'ceaf,' a word referring to the lower jaw or jawbone. The development of the word reflects the evolution of language and anatomy studies. In biological taxonomy, 'jawed' is a critical differentiator in classifying vertebrates, as it emphasizes the presence of jaws in contrast to 'jawless' species like lampreys and hagfish. Over time, the classification of animals has become increasingly nuanced, with 'jawed' being a fundamental descriptor in discussions of evolutionary biology, paleontology, and animal physiology. Understanding jawed animals helps in studying their ecological roles and the evolutionary significance of jaws in adaptation and survival strategies.