Lõual

Lõual is a term primarily used in Estonian to refer to the jaw or mandible. It encompasses both the upper and lower bones of the mouth that hold the teeth. The lower jaw, specifically, is often the focus when the term lõual is used in a general context. This bone is a crucial part of the facial structure, enabling functions such as chewing, speaking, and facial expression. It articulates with the skull at the temporomandibular joint, allowing for a wide range of movement.

In a broader, less anatomical sense, lõual can sometimes be used colloquially to describe a stubborn or defiant attitude, evoking the image of someone setting their jaw. However, its most common and direct meaning relates to the anatomical structure. Understanding the context in which lõual is used is key to interpreting its intended meaning. The anatomical definition remains the primary and most widely accepted interpretation of the word.