1. The tissue (covered by mucous membrane) of the jaws that surrounds the bases of the teeth
   "Healthy gingiva is crucial for maintaining good oral hygiene";
   - gum

Derived forms: gingivae

Type of: animal tissue

Part of: cakehole [Brit, informal], gob [Brit, informal], hole [informal], kisser [informal], maw [informal], mouth, oral cavity, oral fissure, trap [informal], yap [N. Amer, informal]

Encyclopedia: Gingiva