Definitions

1. adjective

relating to or caused by phosphorus poisoning

“The workers fell victim to phossy jaw, a painful and disfiguring condition caused by prolonged exposure to phosphorus fumes.”

2. noun

a condition, now largely eradicated, caused by prolonged exposure to phosphorus fumes, characterized by necrosis of the jawbone

“The former match factory worker suffered from a severe case of phossy jaw, which left him disfigured for life.”

3. noun

a worker who suffered from phossy jaw, often as a result of prolonged exposure to phosphorus fumes in match factories

“The phossy jaw epidemic in the 19th century led to the eventual abolition of the match-making industry.”