The upper and lower bony structures in vertebrates that hold the teeth and form the framework of the mouth.
From Middle English 'jawe,' possibly from Old French 'joue' (cheek) or related to 'chew.' The word originally referred to the cheek or jaw area before narrowing to the specific bony structures.
The evolution of jaws was one of the most significant developments in vertebrate history, occurring around 400 million years ago and allowing for more efficient feeding strategies. The phrase 'jaws of death' metaphorically captures how these feeding structures became symbols of danger and mortality.
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