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Jowl Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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jowl

[dʒaʊl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

anatomy

A jowl refers to the loose flesh that hangs down from the jaw, especially in older animals or humans. In humans, it often signifies the area around the lower jaw and the cheek, where excess skin or fat may accumulate.

Synonyms

cheek, jaw, muzzle.

Examples of usage

  • The dog's jowls flapped in the wind as it ran.
  • He had prominent jowls that gave him a distinguished look.
  • The veterinarian examined the jowl of the aging dog.
  • Her jowls seemed more pronounced after weight loss.
Context #2 | Noun

culinary

In culinary terms, particularly in relation to meat, jowl can refer to cuts of meat from the lower jaw or cheeks of an animal, often used for flavoring or in traditional dishes.

Synonyms

cheek meat, jowls.

Examples of usage

  • The recipe called for smoked pork jowl for added flavor.
  • He prepared a delicious stew using beef jowl.
  • Jowl bacon is a delicacy in some regions.
  • The chef recommended duck jowl for a rich taste.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Anatomy

  • Jowls typically become more noticeable with age as skin loses elasticity and fat accumulates.
  • The area is filled with both fatty tissues and skin, resulting in a characteristic droopiness when aging or due to weight gain.
  • Facial muscles around the jowl are linked to facial expressions, contributing to how we communicate emotions.

Cultural References

  • In art, the depiction of jowls often reflects wisdom or a stern temperament in older figures.
  • Certain celebrities are known for their prominent jowls, becoming a topic of interest in discussions about beauty standards.
  • In political cartoons, jowls may be exaggerated to comment on age or character traits of public figures.

Psychology

  • Facial features, including the jowl area, play a role in how we perceive trustworthiness and age in others.
  • Research suggests that people often associate heavier jowls with being less active or healthy, which can affect social perceptions.
  • Expressions involving the jowl area can communicate various emotions, such as concern or surprise, influencing interpersonal interactions.

Health

  • Excess fat accumulation in the jowl area can indicate overall health issues, including poor diet or lack of exercise.
  • Cosmetic procedures often target the jowl region to create a more youthful appearance and improve self-esteem.
  • Maintaining good skin care can help delay the sagging of the jowl area, promoting a healthier look as one ages.

Origin of 'jowl'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'jowl' comes from the Middle English word 'jowle,' which referred to the lower jaw or the flesh hanging under it.
  • Related to 'jaw,' the word is connected to Old French 'joue,' meaning cheek.
  • In some dialects, 'jowl' can also refer to the jawbone itself, highlighting its anatomical significance.

The word 'jowl' originates from Middle English 'jaule', which meant 'cheek' or 'jaw', derived from the Old French 'jaule', related to the word 'jowl' which referred to the lower jaw and cheeks. Its roots trace back further to the Vulgar Latin 'galea', meaning 'helmet', which reflects the shape that the jawline resembles. Over time, the term has evolved and is now commonly associated with both anatomical and culinary contexts. In modern usage, 'jowl' often evokes imagery of animals with droopy cheeks, such as dogs or pigs, and is also used to describe aging appearances in humans due to sagging skin.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,737 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.