Pronunciation: [d͡ʒˈa͡ʊlz] (IPA) 
Jowls, spelled as /dʒaʊlz/, are typically understood as the fleshy, sagging cheeks that form around a person's jawline. The 'j' in jowls is pronounced as in the word 'jump,' while the 'ow' is pronounced as in 'cow.' The 'l' is silent, creating the /z/ sound at the end of the word. It is important to spell the word accurately when communicating about facial features or cooking techniques, such as jowl bacon.
Jowls refer to the loose flesh or skin hanging beneath the lower jaw or cheeks, typically found on the lower part of a person's face. It is a term used to describe the sagging, fatty or flabby appearance of the cheeks, jawline, and chin. The presence of jowls is often associated with the natural aging process, as the skin loses its elasticity and firmness over time.
Jowls are commonly seen in older individuals, but they can also occur in people who are overweight or have experienced significant weight loss. They are characterized by the drooping or downturned appearance of the lower face, which can contribute to a more aged or tired appearance.
The development of jowls can be influenced by various factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and exposure to environmental factors such as sun damage. Sun exposure, for example, can lead to the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, contributing to the sagging of facial tissues.
While jowls are a natural part of aging, some individuals may feel self-conscious about their appearance. In such cases, cosmetic procedures like facelifts or non-surgical treatments such as dermal fillers or radiofrequency therapy can be pursued to help reduce the prominence of jowls, restore a more youthful facial contour and improve overall self-confidence.
The word "jowls" is derived from the Middle English term "chawl" or "chawle", which originated from the Old English word "ceole". The Old English "ceole" referred to the lower jaw or cheek, and it is believed to have its roots in Germanic and Old Norse languages. The term gradually evolved over time, eventually turning into "jowls" in Modern English.
