maxilla

 
Pronunciation: /makˈsɪlə/

noun (plural maxillae /-liː/)

Anatomy & Zoology
  • the jaw or jawbone, specifically the upper jaw in most vertebrates. In humans it also forms part of the nose and eye socket.
  • (in many arthropods) each of a pair of mouthparts used in chewing.

Origin:

late Middle English: from Latin, 'jaw'