The phrase "lantern jaw" is commonly used to describe someone with a strong, angular jawline. The pronunciation of this phrase can be broken down using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), which includes the sounds of each individual letter: /ˈlæn.tərn dʒɔ/. The "t" sound in "lantern" is followed by a short "u" sound in "jaw," and the "j" in "jaw" is pronounced like a "d" sound. Essentially, the phrase can be pronounced as "lan-turn jaw."
The term "lantern jaw" refers to a prominent or excessively pronounced jawline. It is characterized by a jaw that is elongated or protruding, often resembling the shape of a traditional lantern. This term is primarily used in an anatomical context to describe a particular aesthetic feature of the lower face.
The lantern jaw is typically defined by a strong, square, and angular jawline. It can be a notable feature of an individual's facial structure, influencing the overall appearance and definition of the face. It is often associated with traits such as masculinity, strength, and determination, and has been regarded as a desirable physical feature within certain cultures and societies.
This term is derived from the resemblance between the shape of a lantern, which traditionally encompasses a cylindrical body leading to a protruding, rectangular or square base, and the appearance of the jawline in question. The term "lantern jaw" can also be metaphorically used to describe someone who has a particularly strong or forceful personality, reflecting the perceived characteristics associated with a prominent jawline.
It is important to note that the term "lantern jaw" is a colloquial expression and is not widely used in professional medical or anatomical contexts. Instead, it is commonly found in literature, popular culture, and everyday conversation, serving as a descriptive term for a distinctive facial feature.
The term "lantern jaw" is an idiomatic expression often used to describe a person with a prominent, protruding, or sharply defined jawline.
The word "lantern" originally comes from the Middle English word "lanterne", which is derived from the Old French word "lanterne" meaning "lamp" or "lantern". The use of "lantern" in this expression may be attributed to the similarity in shape between a lantern and a person's jawline. The jawline may appear to stand out or jut forward, resembling the shape of a lantern.
The term "jaw" originated from the Old English word "ceowan", which means "to chew". It refers to the bony framework forming part of the mouth and holding the teeth. Over time, the word "jaw" also came to be associated with the overall shape and prominence of the lower part of the face.