Head: meaning, definitions and examples
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head
[hed ]
Definitions
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
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| 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.
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| 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.
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| cranium |
A more scientific or medical term used to refer specifically to the part of the skull that encloses the brain.
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Examples of usage
- He kissed her on the forehead.
- I have a headache.
action
To be in the leading position on.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| head |
Used to indicate the action of moving towards something or someone, often a destination or goal.
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| lead |
Used to describe the act of guiding or showing the way, often implying a sense of responsibility or influence over others.
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| direct |
Used when guiding someone or giving instructions on how to do something; can also refer to overseeing a particular project or activity.
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Examples of usage
- She will head the new department.
- He headed the committee.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word originates from the Old English 'heafod', which is related to similar terms in other Germanic languages.
- Its roots trace back to Proto-Indo-European *kaput, meaning 'head' or 'top'.
- The use of 'head' to denote a leader or person in charge can be traced to its early meanings relating to being at the top of something.
Cultural Significance
- Many cultures regard the head as a sacred part of the body, often associated with wisdom and intelligence.
- In some traditions, it's customary to bow your head as a sign of respect or humility.
- Certain hairstyles, like a crown or headdress, signify status, especially in royal or tribal contexts.
Psychology
- Headspace is a term often used to describe one's mental state, indicating how people perceive and feel about their thoughts.
- The phrase 'use your head' encourages critical thinking and good judgment, highlighting the importance of our brain in decision-making.
- Many psychological theories emphasize the head (or mind) as the source of emotions and thoughts, essential for understanding human behavior.
Science
- The human head houses the brain, an organ weighing about three pounds that controls all bodily functions and thoughts.
- Head injuries can have significant effects on cognition and behavior, indicating its critical role in our overall health.
- In anatomy, the head consists of several bones, including the skull, mandible (jaw), and facial bones, providing structure and protection for the brain.
Literature
- In literature, the head often symbolizes intellect or authority. Many characters' journeys involve finding the 'head' of the problem they face.
- Classic literature utilizes the head metaphorically to discuss themes of wisdom versus folly, and leadership versus followership.
- Books often use imagery of a bowed head to convey defeat or submission, enriching the narrative with deep emotional resonance.
Translations
Translations of the word "head" in other languages:
🇵🇹 cabeça
- chefe
- cabeça (de página)
🇮🇳 सिर
- प्रमुख
- शीर्ष
🇩🇪 Kopf
- Leiter
- Kopfzeile
🇮🇩 kepala
- ketua
- kepala (halaman)
🇺🇦 голова
- керівник
- заголовок
🇵🇱 głowa
- szef
- nagłówek
🇯🇵 頭
- 長
- ヘッダー
🇫🇷 tête
- chef
- en-tête
🇪🇸 cabeza
- jefe
- encabezado
🇹🇷 kafa
- baş
- başlık
🇰🇷 머리
- 장
- 헤더
🇸🇦 رأس
- رئيس
- عنوان
🇨🇿 hlava
- šéf
- hlavička
🇸🇰 hlava
- šéf
- hlavička
🇨🇳 头
- 负责人
- 页眉
🇸🇮 glava
- vodja
- glava (strani)
🇮🇸 höfuð
- yfirmaður
- haus
🇰🇿 бас
- басшы
- тақырып
🇬🇪 თავი
- უფროსი
- სათაური
🇦🇿 baş
- rəhbər
- başlıq
🇲🇽 cabeza
- jefe
- encabezado