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Head: meaning, definitions and examples

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head

 

[ hed ]

Noun / Verb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Noun

anatomy

The upper part of the human body, or the front or upper part of the body of an animal, typically separated from the rest of the body by a neck, and containing the brain, mouth, and sense organs.

Synonyms

cranium, skull.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
head

Used in everyday language to refer to the upper part of the human body, typically including the face, eyes, ears, nose, and mouth.

  • She nodded her head in agreement.
  • He wore a hat to protect his head from the sun.
skull

Refers to the entire bony structure of the head, including the cranium and face bones. Often used in both medical contexts and more informal or even dramatic contexts.

  • The archaeologist unearthed an ancient skull.
  • The X-ray showed a fracture in the skull.
cranium

A more scientific or medical term used to refer specifically to the part of the skull that encloses the brain.

  • The doctor explained that the injury was to the cranium.
  • In anatomy class, they studied the structure of the cranium.

Examples of usage

  • He kissed her on the forehead.
  • I have a headache.
Context #2 | Verb

action

To be in the leading position on.

Synonyms

direct, lead.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
head

Used to indicate the action of moving towards something or someone, often a destination or goal.

  • We are going to head to the park after lunch
lead

Used to describe the act of guiding or showing the way, often implying a sense of responsibility or influence over others.

  • She was chosen to lead the research team
direct

Used when guiding someone or giving instructions on how to do something; can also refer to overseeing a particular project or activity.

  • He will direct the new product launch

Examples of usage

  • She will head the new department.
  • He headed the committee.

Translations

Translations of the word "head" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cabeça

🇮🇳 सिर

🇩🇪 Kopf

🇮🇩 kepala

🇺🇦 голова

🇵🇱 głowa

🇯🇵 頭

🇫🇷 tête

🇪🇸 cabeza

🇹🇷 kafa

🇰🇷 머리

🇸🇦 رأس

🇨🇿 hlava

🇸🇰 hlava

🇨🇳 头

🇸🇮 glava

🇮🇸 höfuð

🇰🇿 бас

🇬🇪 თავი

🇦🇿 baş

🇲🇽 cabeza

Etymology

The word 'head' has its origin in Old English 'heafod', which is of Germanic origin. The word has been used to refer to the upper part of the human body since ancient times. It is also commonly used in various idiomatic expressions and phrases.

See also: beheader, headache, headband, headbands, header, headgear, headhunter, heading, headland, headline, headman, headmaster, headmistress, headpiece, headquarters, headrest, headscarf, headset, headshot, headsman, headstall, headstrong, headwear, headwind, headwrap, hothead, overhead.

Word Frequency Rank

With position #243, 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.