Jowlier Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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jowlier

[ˈdʒoʊl.i.ər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

describing appearance

Jowlier refers to having prominent or sagging cheeks, typically associated with aging or certain physical characteristics. It often describes individuals with a noticeable jawline or subcutaneous fat in the lower part of the face. This term can be used in both a neutral and negative context, depending on the speaker's intention. It may also imply a sense of fullness or heaviness to the facial structure.

Synonyms

angular, chubby, puffy.

Examples of usage

  • The jowlier features of the old man gave him a wise appearance.
  • She noticed her jowlier look after gaining some weight.
  • Many actors use makeup to avoid appearing jowlier on screen.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Perceptions

  • In various cultures, fuller faces can be seen as a sign of wealth and health during certain historical periods.
  • In modern society, the perception of jowls can vary widely, with some viewing them as a sign of maturity or wisdom.
  • Media often portrays youthful ideals where a tighter jawline is favored, impacting societal views on beauty.

Health and Aging

  • As people age, skin loses elasticity, leading to sagging in areas like the jawline, resulting in jowls.
  • Certain lifestyle aspects, such as diet and sun exposure, can contribute to how one develops jowls.
  • Jowls can be a common concern in cosmetic surgery, with procedures available to tighten the skin around the jaw.

Psychological Insights

  • Facial features, including jowls, can influence people's first impressions and perceptions of trustworthiness.
  • Studies in psychology suggest that rounder, fuller facial features are often associated with kindness and approachability.
  • Self-image can be affected by how society perceives features like jowls, impacting mental well-being.

Art and Literature

  • In classical art, subjects with soft features were often depicted as more genteel or noble.
  • Literature sometimes uses descriptions of characters with jowls to invoke a sense of age or wisdom.
  • Caricatured art often exaggerates jowls to add a humorous effect, reflecting societal views on age and character.

Origin of 'jowlier'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from 'jowl', which refers to the lower part of a cheek or jaw.
  • It is derived from Middle English 'jole', related to the Old French word 'jaule', meaning 'jaw'.
  • Related words include 'jowly', describing the characteristic of having jowls.

The word 'jowlier' is derived from 'jowl,' which originates from Middle English 'jole,' referring to the jaw or cheek. The term has its roots in the Old French word 'joule' and is related to the Latin word 'juga,' meaning 'yoke.' Over time, 'jowl' evolved to depict the loose fleshy skin around the jawline, often associated with aging or certain facial features. The comparative form 'jowlier' emerged in modern usage to describe a more pronounced or noticeable jowl appearance, reflecting societal perceptions of beauty and aging. The connotation of 'jowlier' can vary, as it may be used descriptively or pejoratively based on the speaker's context. Today, it is often employed in discussions about physical traits in both casual and professional settings.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,793, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.