What does jawing mean?
Jawing means talking at length, and it often implies that the conversation has become noisy, persistent, or argumentative. The word is informal in both British and American English and can sound mildly disapproving: someone who is constantly arguing may be described as “jawing” or “jawing at someone.” It is related to the broader, older use of “jaw” as a verb meaning to talk or chatter, although “jawing” most commonly suggests an extended or contentious exchange. The expression is often used when describing everyday disputes, animated discussions, or someone who will not stop talking. It is not a formal term, but it vividly conveys both the physical act of talking and the sense that the talk has become tiresome or excessive.
verbTo talk for a long time, especially in an argumentative or emphatic manner.
- To talk for a prolonged period.
- To argue or dispute noisily.
"They spent the whole meeting jawing about who had responsibility for the delay."
"We spent the afternoon jawing over coffee about the proposed changes."
"The neighbors began jawing again, and soon the whole street was awake."
To say someone is “jawing” is to suggest that their talking has become long, loud, or argumentative.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does jawing come from?
The present form is the third-person singular, present participle of the informal verb “jaw,” meaning to talk or chatter. The verb “jaw” developed in Middle English with senses connected with moving the jaw, chewing, and speaking; its precise origin and early development are uncertain. Modern usage is most strongly associated with prolonged or argumentative speech.
Related word forms
How jawing is actually used
This is informal and often carries a mildly disparaging or impatient tone. It is especially natural in the construction “jawing at someone,” meaning talking directly to them in an argumentative or persistent way.