Definition of CHEW (original) (raw)
1
: to crush, grind, or gnaw (something, such as food) with or as if with the teeth : masticate
2
: to injure, destroy, or consume as if by chewing —usually used with up
chewing up profits
Phrases
chew on
: to think about : ponder
chewing on the new developments
chew the fat or less commonly chew the rag
: to make friendly familiar conversation : chat
Synonyms
Examples of chew in a Sentence
Verb
We were taught to chew our food thoroughly before swallowing. He chews with his mouth open. You're not allowed to chew gum in class. A mouse chewed through the cord. The dog chewed a hole in the rug.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Dogs sometimes show frustration about being home alone by chewing on couches and shoes or ripping up pillows. —
Paul Du Quenoy, Newsweek, 31 Dec. 2024 The monkeys chew coffee cherries and spit out the seeds. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 31 Dec. 2024
If your pup likes chewing on stuff, giving them edible chews or chew toys will keep them from ruining your furniture. —Paul Du Quenoy, Newsweek, 9 Dec. 2024 The Honest Paws Calm Treat Bundle includes two packs of treats, each containing 30 CBD chews. —Lydia Kariuki, The Mercury News, 3 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for chew 
Word History
Etymology
Verb
Middle English, from Old English cēowan; akin to Old High German kiuwan to chew, Russian zhevat'
First Known Use
Verb
before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1
Noun
13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Time Traveler
The first known use of chew was before the 12th century
Dictionary Entries Near chew
Cite this Entry
“Chew.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chew. Accessed 17 Jan. 2025.
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Last Updated: 8 Jan 2025 - Updated example sentences
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