Sawlike

Sawlike is an adjective used to describe edges, margins, or surfaces that resemble a saw in their serrated or toothed appearance. It conveys a pattern of repeated projections or teeth along a line, giving a jagged profile rather than a smooth, even edge. The term is commonly used across disciplines to describe physical morphology rather than function.

In botany, sawlike margins occur on leaves or petals where the edge has a series of small, sharp teeth. In zoology and anatomy, structures may be described as sawlike when they bear a row of pointed projections, such as a rostrum with toothlike dentitions. In geology and geomorphology, some coastlines or rock formations feature sawlike ridges or serrations, produced by erosion or fracturing. In materials science and engineering, blades, knives, or cutting edges may be described as sawlike when their serrated profiles resemble a saw.

The term is descriptive and non-technical; it often appears in field guides, technical descriptions, or lay explanations to contrast a jagged edge with a smooth or finely serrated alternative. Etymology traces to the noun saw, combined with the suffix -like, indicating likeness to a saw.

See also: serration, serrated, sawtooth, toothed.