Jowls Meaning: Definition and Examples
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jowls
[dÊ’aÊŠlz ]
Definition
body part
Jowls refer to the fleshy parts of the lower jaw, particularly noticeable in older people or certain breeds of animals. They can be seen as a characteristic feature of a person's face, often associated with aging.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- His jowls sagged as he aged.
- The dog had prominent jowls that flapped when it ran.
- She had defined jowls that added character to her face.
Interesting Facts
Anatomy
- Jowls are made up of skin and fat tissue, which can sag due to aging or weight loss.
- In humans, jowls tend to become more pronounced as skin loses elasticity with age.
- Certain breeds of dogs, like Bloodhounds and Bulldogs, display prominent jowls that are characteristic of their type.
Cultural Significance
- In some cultures, well-defined jowls can be seen as a sign of wisdom or maturity.
- Jowls have been a subject in art, often representing age and experience in portraits.
- In modern media, characters with jowls may be depicted as grumpy or wise, reflecting cultural associations.
Psychology
- Facial features like jowls can influence perceptions of trustworthiness in social interactions.
- Research shows that people may subconsciously associate sagging features with age and experience.
- People’s reactions to jowls can differ greatly based on individual preferences and cultural standards of beauty.
Pop Culture
- In animation, characters with exaggerated jowls often serve comedic roles due to their unique appearance.
- Famous figures, such as certain political leaders, have been noted for their jowls and how they affect public perception.
- Jowls are sometimes humorously referenced in TV shows or movies to imply a character's age or foolishness.
Origin of 'jowls'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French word 'jaule,' which means cheek or jaw.
- It is related to the Middle English term 'jowle,' indicating the same cheek area.
- Jowls can refer to both human and animal features, denoting a rounded, sagging appearance.
The word 'jowls' comes from the Middle English word 'jule', which means the lower jaw or chin. It is believed to have its roots in the Old French word 'jaule', meaning 'jaw', which is derived from the Latin 'gula', referring to the throat or jaw. Over time, the term evolved to specifically describe the looser flesh found around the jawline, particularly as a person ages. Jowls can signify age and wisdom in humans, while in animals, particularly dogs, they often connote breed characteristics. The term has been used in various literary contexts to paint vivid portraits of characters, highlighting their features and evoking a sense of age and experience.