Definition

Describing someone who has loose or sagging skin around the lower cheeks and jaw, often giving a fuller appearance.

Example

As he aged, his face became more jowly, making him look older than he felt.

Conversation

Have you noticed how jowly some of the older actors are getting?

Yeah, it seems like they all have that look now.

I guess it's just a part of aging, but it can be a bit surprising.

True! It's interesting how we perceive age in celebrities.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Jowly is derived from the word "jowl" (from Middle English "jole", meaning the lower part of the cheek or jaw). The suffix "-y" (meaning characterized by) indicates a quality or condition. Therefore, "jowly" describes someone characterized by having prominent jowls or sagging cheeks.

Memory Tip

Think of 'jowl' as the part of the cheek that is prominent, and the '-y' means having that quality. So, jowly refers to someone who has noticeable jowls.

Visually Confused Words