Bosom: meaning, definitions and examples

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bosom

 

[ ˈbʊzəm ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

close relationship

The chest considered as the place where secret thoughts are kept. A close and intimate relationship; a bond.

Synonyms

center, core, heart.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bosom

This word is typically reserved for more poetic or emotional contexts. It often relates to the chest area of a person or to convey deep affection and intimacy.

  • She held the letter close to her bosom, cherishing every word.
  • In the bosom of the family, he found solace and love.
heart

Often used metaphorically to represent emotions, love, or the essential part of something. It can be both poetic and commonly used.

  • He poured his heart into the project.
  • The heart of the matter is trust.
core

Refers to the most central, essential, or important part of something. It can be used both literally and metaphorically.

  • The core of the apple was discarded.
  • At the core of their values is a commitment to equality.
center

Used to describe the middle point of a space, object, or activity. It is often neutral and very common in both everyday and technical contexts.

  • He placed the flower at the center of the table.
  • The city center was bustling with activity.

Examples of usage

  • She poured out her troubles to her bosom friend.
  • In her bosom, she carried the memories of her lost love.
  • The secret was safe in the bosom of her family.
  • His bosom friend stood by him through thick and thin.
  • They shared a bosom friendship that lasted a lifetime.
Context #2 | Noun

chest of a person

The chest of a person; the part of the body between the neck and the stomach. The breast of a person.

Synonyms

breast, chest, torso.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bosom

This term is often used in a poetic or literary context to talk about the chest area, especially in an intimate or affectionate way.

  • She held the baby close to her bosom.
  • He confided his secrets to his bosom friend.
chest

Commonly used in everyday language to refer to the upper front part of the body between the neck and the abdomen. Suitable for both men and women.

  • He felt pain in his chest and was rushed to the hospital.
  • She wore a necklace that sparkled on her chest.
breast

Primarily used to refer to the front part of the chest, particularly for women. It's also used in medical and anatomical contexts.

  • She felt a lump in her breast and decided to visit a doctor.
  • The armor protected his breast from the sword’s thrust.
torso

Refers to the central part of the human body excluding the head and limbs. Often used in anatomy or to describe art forms and exercises involving the full body.

  • The workout focused on strengthening the torso.
  • The sculpture displayed a beautifully carved torso.

Examples of usage

  • He held the letter close to his bosom.
  • She clutched her bosom in pain.
  • He felt a warmth in his bosom.
  • The necklace lay gently on her bosom.
  • The baby nuzzled against her bosom.
Context #3 | Verb

embrace closely

To embrace closely; to hug or hold onto tightly. To enclose or keep close.

Synonyms

clasp, embrace, hug.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bosom

This term is more poetic or classical, often used to describe a close, intimate part of the human chest where emotions are held. It can also refer to a close, nurturing place or relationship.

  • She held the letter close to her bosom.
  • In the bosom of the family, he felt safe and loved.
embrace

Embrace is a more formal term for a close hug and can be used both literally and metaphorically to describe accepting or adopting something enthusiastically.

  • They embraced after a long separation.
  • The company embraced new technologies to improve productivity.
hug

Hug is a common and straightforward term used for holding someone close with your arms. It conveys warmth, affection, and comfort.

  • She hugged her friend tightly after hearing the good news.
  • Children gave their parents a big hug before going to school.
clasp

Clasp usually suggests holding something tightly with your hands or arms. It's often used in contexts where security or urgency is implied.

  • She clasped her hands together in prayer.
  • He clasped her hand to offer comfort in the trying moment.

Examples of usage

  • She bosomed the child to her heart.
  • The lovers bosomed each other in a warm embrace.
  • He bosomed the secret for years.
  • She bosomed the puppy to keep it warm.
  • They bosomed their sorrows together.

Translations

Translations of the word "bosom" in other languages:

🇵🇹 seio

🇮🇳 स्तन

🇩🇪 Busen

🇮🇩 dada

🇺🇦 груди

🇵🇱 biust

🇯🇵 

🇫🇷 seins

🇪🇸 seno

🇹🇷 göğüs

🇰🇷 가슴

🇸🇦 صدر

🇨🇿 prsa

🇸🇰 prsia

🇨🇳 胸部

🇸🇮 prsi

🇮🇸 brjóst

🇰🇿 кеуде

🇬🇪 ძუძუს

🇦🇿 sinə

🇲🇽 seno

Etymology

The word 'bosom' has Old English origins, derived from the Proto-Germanic word 'bōsma', meaning 'breast' or 'chest'. Over time, the word evolved to also symbolize closeness, intimacy, and trust. It has been used in literature and poetry to convey deep emotional connections and physical warmth between individuals.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,441 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.