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Mandible Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mandible

[หˆmandษชb(ษ™)l ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

anatomy

The mandible is the lower jawbone in vertebrates.

Examples of usage

  • The mandible is responsible for movements of the jaw, such as chewing and speaking.
  • The mandible articulates with the skull at the temporomandibular joint.
  • The mandible supports the lower teeth.
  • The mandible can be fractured due to trauma.
  • The mandible plays a crucial role in facial structure.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Anatomy

  • The mandible is the only movable bone of the skull, allowing for essential functions like chewing and speaking.
  • It connects with the skull at the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is crucial for jaw movement.
  • In many animals, the shape and size of the mandible can indicate their diet โ€“ carnivores often have larger, stronger jaws for hunting.

Pop Culture

  • In movies like 'Jaws', the power of the shark's mandible is central to the creatureโ€™s fearsome image.
  • The mandible has been featured in various cartoons, often depicted as exaggeratedly large for comedic effect.
  • Some video games feature monsters where the size and design of the mandible is a key trait, affecting gameplay.

Evolutionary Biology

  • The mandible's structure has evolved differently across species, reflecting various dietary needs and adaptations.
  • Fossil evidence suggests that ancient reptiles had unique mandible shapes suited to their specific modes of feeding.
  • Comparative studies of mandible structures help scientists understand the evolutionary relationships between species.

Dental Science

  • Dentists often focus on the mandible when treating bite issues or jaw alignment.
  • The health of the mandible is crucial for overall dental health, as it supports teeth and influences chewing efficiency.
  • Malocclusion, or misalignment of teeth, can lead to complications with the mandible over time.

Origin of 'mandible'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'mandible' comes from the Latin word 'mandibula', meaning 'jaw' or 'chew'.
  • The root 'mand-' in Latin is linked to the word 'mandare', which means 'to chew' or 'to command'.
  • This word has been used in English since the 14th century, highlighting its long-standing importance in anatomy.

The word 'mandible' comes from the Latin word 'mandibula', which means 'jaw'. The mandible is a key bone in the human body, essential for functions like chewing and speaking. Throughout history, the mandible has been studied extensively in anatomy and has played a significant role in understanding the structure of the face and skull.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,221, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.