Definition of mouth

Short definition: The word mouth refers to the part of the face used to speak, eat, and express emotion, and it can also describe the act of forming words silently or carelessly, depending on how it is used in a sentence.

Looking for a clear and natural explanation of the word mouth? The word mouth is very common in English and is used in both literal and figurative ways. Literally, it refers to the opening in the face used for speaking, eating, and breathing. Figuratively, it can describe openings, sources, or ways of speaking. You will hear it in daily conversation, writing, and many fixed expressions. Below, each meaning is explained in a calm and natural way, with enough detail to feel clear, human, and practical.

Forms: mouth, mouths, mouthed, mouthing
Related: lips n., tongue n., speak v.
Syllable: mouth

1. (Noun) The opening in the face used for speaking eating drinking and breathing.

   The mouth is the opening in the lower part of the face that contains the lips teeth and tongue and is used for talking eating drinking breathing and expressing emotions such as smiling or frowning.

   She covered her mouth in surprise when she heard the unexpected news during the meeting.
   He took a sip of water to clear his mouth before continuing his speech.
   The dentist carefully examined his mouth to check the condition of his teeth and gums.

   Synonyms: oral opening, lips and teeth area, oral cavity, face opening, speaking opening, eating opening, oral space, mouth area, oral region, speech organ, feeding opening, facial opening
   Antonyms: closed face, sealed lips, no opening, covered mouth, shut lips, blocked opening, silence state, closed expression, sealed face, no speech, no intake, stillness

2. (Noun) An opening or entrance of something such as a river cave or container.

   In a broader sense, a mouth refers to the opening or entrance of a physical structure, such as where a river flows into the sea or where a cave tunnel begins, emphasizing the idea of entry or exit.

   The boat slowed down near the mouth of the river where the water met the open sea.
   They stood at the mouth of the cave unsure of what they would find inside.
   The mouth of the bottle was too narrow to pour the liquid quickly.

   Synonyms: opening, entrance, outlet, opening point, entryway, access point, opening end, passage entrance, inlet, opening section, front opening, gateway
   Antonyms: end, interior, closed area, sealed space, blockage, dead end, closed point, inner section, shut entrance, closed passage, interior core, blocked exit

3. (Verb) To form words silently or speak without sound often in an exaggerated way.

   To mouth something means to move your lips as if speaking without making a sound, or to say words in a way that looks exaggerated or insincere, often used when sound cannot be heard or when criticizing how something is said.

   She mouthed the words thank you across the room so no one else would notice.
   He mouthed an apology during the presentation after realizing his mistake.
   The actor was criticized for mouthing the lines without real emotion.

   Synonyms: lip read motion, say silently, form words, move lips, speak without sound, exaggerate speech, lip movement, silent speaking, over articulate, fake saying, mime words, silent expression
   Antonyms: speak aloud, say clearly, voice, pronounce, articulate normally, speak out loud, express verbally, talk openly, state clearly, vocalize, say honestly, speak naturally