IPA: /tʃuː/
KK: /tʃu/
To use the teeth to break down food into smaller pieces, often by moving the jaw up and down.
The dog likes to chew on his favorite toy.
Past: chewed
Past Participle: chewed
An item that is chewed, often referring to food or tobacco.
He took a big chew of his gum before speaking.
To use your teeth to break food into smaller pieces so that it can be swallowed.
I like to chew my food slowly to enjoy the taste.
Past: chewed
Past Participle: chewed
The word 'chew' originates from Old English 'ceowan', meaning to bite or munch. It describes the action of grinding food with the teeth.
Think of the Old English word 'ceowan' which means to bite or munch — that's why 'chew' refers to the action of grinding food with your teeth.