Body Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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body

[ˈbɒdi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

human anatomy

The physical structure of a person, including bones, flesh, and organs.

Synonyms

figure, form, frame, physique.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
body

Used generally to refer to the entire physical structure of a person or an animal. Common in everyday conversations.

  • She takes good care of her body by eating healthy and exercising.
  • The human body is incredibly complex.
physique

Describes the form, size, and muscular development of someone's body, emphasizing physical fitness or athleticism. Often used in sports or fitness contexts.

  • He has an impressive physique due to years of weightlifting.
  • Her physique reflects her dedication to her workout regimen.
form

Used to describe the shape or configuration of something, which can include the human body but is not limited to it. More abstract and formal.

  • The sculpture perfectly captured the athlete's form.
  • Her form was flawless during the dance performance.
figure

Often used to refer to the shape or outline of someone's body, especially in terms of attractiveness or aesthetics.

  • She has an athletic figure.
  • He’s proud of his muscled figure.
frame

Refers to the basic structure or skeleton of the body, often highlighting the size or build. Used in more specific or technical contexts.

  • He has a large frame and broad shoulders.
  • Despite her small frame, she is very strong.

Examples of usage

  • The human body is composed of various systems working together.
  • She has a fit and healthy body.
  • Regular exercise is important for maintaining a strong body.
  • The body is capable of remarkable feats of endurance.
  • Proper nutrition is essential for a healthy body.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • The human body contains around 37.2 trillion cells, each with its specific role.
  • Bones make up about 15% of your body weight, with the femur being the longest bone and the stapes the smallest.

Cultural Significance

  • Throughout history, different cultures have celebrated the body through art, dance, and rituals.
  • In some belief systems, the body is viewed as a temple, emphasizing the importance of physical health and spirituality.

Psychology

  • Body language can convey emotions and messages sometimes more powerfully than words.
  • The concept of 'body image' plays a significant role in mental health, affecting self-esteem and confidence.

Sports

  • Athletes often focus on optimizing their body through training, diet, and recovery techniques.
  • Sports science studies how different physical activities impact health, fitness, and body performance.

Origin of 'body'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'bodig', which originally meant 'trunk' or 'torso' of an animal.
  • In various languages, like Latin ('corpus') and Greek ('soma'), similar words also refer to the physical form.

The word 'body' originated from the Old English 'bodig' which meant the trunk of a human body. Over time, its meaning expanded to include the entire physical structure of a person. The concept of the body has been central to human understanding for centuries, with various cultural beliefs and practices revolving around the body. Today, the body is studied in fields such as anatomy, physiology, and medicine to understand its complexities and functions.


Word Frequency Rank

With position #233, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.