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Corpulence Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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corpulence

[ˈkɔːp.jə.ləns ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

in medical context

The state of being excessively fat; obesity.

Synonyms

fatness, obesity, overweight.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
corpulence

Typically used in formal or literary contexts to describe someone who is large in a way that might be seen as elegant or distinguished.

  • He carried his corpulence with an air of dignity that commanded respect
obesity

A medical term used in healthcare settings to describe a condition where a person has excessive body fat, often associated with health issues.

  • Doctors are particularly concerned about the rise in childhood obesity
overweight

A neutral term used in both everyday and medical contexts to describe someone who weighs more than what is generally considered healthy for their height.

  • She is slightly overweight but maintains an active lifestyle
fatness

Commonly used in everyday speech but can have a negative or pejorative tone. Usually describes someone who is noticeably overweight.

  • His fatness made it difficult for him to participate in physical activities

Examples of usage

  • She was concerned about her corpulence and decided to start a diet.
  • His corpulence was affecting his health, so he began an exercise routine.
  • The doctor warned him about the dangers of his corpulence.
  • The man's corpulence made it difficult for him to move around easily.
  • Corpulence is a common issue in today's society.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures have varied views on corpulence; in some societies, greater body sizes are linked to wealth and prosperity.
  • Historical art often depicted corpulence as a sign of abundance, reflecting cultural attitudes towards health and beauty.
  • In modern times, many cultures have shifted towards ideals of thinness, creating complex discussions about health and self-image.

Health and Nutrition

  • Corpulence can lead to health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems.
  • Studies show that maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including balanced nutrition and exercise, can help manage body weight.
  • Interestingly, not all individuals with higher body weight experience adverse health effects; genetics and lifestyle play significant roles.

Psychology

  • Body image is a significant psychological factor; feelings about one's own corpulence can affect self-esteem and mental health.
  • Social stigma and discrimination can impact individuals' well-being, regardless of their actual health status.
  • Therapies focusing on body positivity are becoming more prevalent, encouraging acceptance of diversity in body shapes and sizes.

Literature and Language

  • The term is often used in literature to symbolize indulgence or excess, representing characters with lavish lifestyles.
  • In poetry and prose, physical descriptions of corpulence can convey deeper themes related to character, identity, or societal critique.
  • It appears in various idiomatic expressions that discuss body image, demonstrating how language evolves to discuss physicality.

Origin of 'corpulence'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin term 'corpulenta', meaning 'fat' or 'full of flesh'.
  • Related to the word 'corpus', which means 'body' in Latin, hinting at its connection to physical size.
  • It has been in use in the English language since the 15th century, indicating longstanding conversation about body size.

The word 'corpulence' originated from the Latin word 'corpus', meaning body. Over time, it evolved to refer to the state of being excessively fat or obese. The concept of corpulence has been a concern throughout history, with various cultures having different views on body weight and size. In modern times, the term is often used in medical and scientific contexts to describe obesity and its associated health risks.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,062, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.