Breast Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿฆฐ
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breast

[brษ›st ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

human anatomy

Either of the two soft, protruding organs on the upper front of a woman's body that secrete milk after childbirth.

Synonyms

bosom, chest, mammary gland.

Examples of usage

  • She breastfed her baby every two hours.
  • She felt a lump in her breast and went to see a doctor.
Context #2 | Noun

culinary

The flesh of the front part of the human body between the neck and the stomach.

Synonyms

filet, poultry meat, white meat.

Examples of usage

  • The chef served a delicious roast chicken breast.
  • She prefers chicken breast over chicken thighs.
Context #3 | Verb

archaic

To face or confront boldly or openly.

Synonyms

confront, encounter, face.

Examples of usage

  • He breast the dangers with courage.
  • She breast the challenges head-on.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Anatomy

  • Breasts are made up of glandular tissue, fat, and connective tissue, with the primary function of producing milk for infants.
  • Mammography is a special type of X-ray used to check for breast health, helping to detect any problems early on.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, breasts are often associated with femininity and motherhood, symbolizing fertility and nurturing.
  • Art and literature throughout history have depicted breasts, conveying themes of beauty, love, and sometimes, sexuality.

Historical Context

  • Breast-feeding has been practiced by mothers since ancient times, with historical records showing its importance in child-rearing across cultures.
  • In medieval Europe, wet nurses were often hired by nobility to breast-feed children, reflecting social status and the division of labor.

Health and Science

  • Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer and early detection through regular screenings can greatly enhance treatment success.
  • Research has shown that breastfeeding offers numerous health benefits for both babies and mothers, including immunity boosts and emotional bonding.

Psychological Aspects

  • Breast-related imagery can evoke a range of emotions tied to nurturing and comfort, influencing societal views on body image.
  • Psychological studies suggest that attitudes towards breastfeeding can shape perceptions of motherhood and femininity in various cultures.

Origin of 'breast'

The word 'breast' has Old English origins, and its use to refer to the human chest dates back to the 9th century. The term has evolved over time to encompass both the anatomical part of the body and culinary references. The association with breastfeeding and nurturing has made the breast a symbol of femininity and motherhood in various cultures.


See also: breastfeed, breastfeeding.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,973, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.