chew

1 of 2

verb

chewed; chewing; chews

transitive verb

1
: to crush, grind, or gnaw (something, such as food) with or as if with the teeth : masticate
2
: to injure, destroy, or consume as if by chewing
usually used with up
chewing up profits

intransitive verb

: to chew something
specifically : to chew tobacco
chewable adjective
chewer noun
chewy adjective

chew

2 of 2

noun

1
: the act of chewing
2
: something for chewing
Phrases
chew on
: to think about : ponder
chewing on the new developments
chew the fat or less commonly chew the rag
: to make friendly familiar conversation : chat

Examples of chew in a Sentence

Verb We were taught to chew our food thoroughly before swallowing. He chews with his mouth open. You're not allowed to chew gum in class. A mouse chewed through the cord. The dog chewed a hole in the rug.
Recent Examples on the Web
Verb
Also, sensory play can keep them engaged for a long time and is really important at this age, so be on the hunt for toys with different textures and shapes that are safe for babies to touch and chew (since everything goes into their mouth). Maya Polton, Parents, 11 May 2024 Our jaws ached for lack of something tough to chew (some gum might have helped). Tom Hinman, Outdoor Life, 8 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for chew 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'chew.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Verb

Middle English, from Old English cēowan; akin to Old High German kiuwan to chew, Russian zhevat'

First Known Use

Verb

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Noun

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of chew was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near chew

Cite this Entry

“Chew.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chew. Accessed 15 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

chew

1 of 2 verb
: to crush or grind with the teeth
chewable adjective
chewer noun
chewy adjective

chew

2 of 2 noun
1
: the act of chewing
2
: something for chewing
a chew of tobacco

More from Merriam-Webster on chew

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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