Neck: meaning, definitions and examples

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neck

[ nɛk ]

^{Context #1}

human anatomy

The part of the body that joins the head to the shoulders, consisting of the vertebrae and associated muscles and tendons.

Synonyms

cervix, throat

Examples of usage

He had a stiff neck after sleeping in an awkward position.
The necklace rested elegantly on her neck.

^{Context #2}

animal anatomy

The part of an animal that connects the head with the rest of the body.

Synonyms

cervix, throat

Examples of usage

The lion had a thick mane around its neck.
The giraffe has a long neck to reach leaves on tall trees.

^{Context #3}

informal

To kiss, embrace, or caress with the neck.

Synonyms

cuddle, snuggle

Examples of usage

They were necking in the backseat of the car.
The couple necked by the river under the moonlight.

Translations

Translations of the word "neck" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pescoço

🇮🇳 गर्दन

🇩🇪 Hals

🇮🇩 leher

🇺🇦 шия

🇵🇱 szyja

🇯🇵 首

🇫🇷 cou

🇪🇸 cuello

🇹🇷 boyun

🇰🇷 목

🇸🇦 رقبة

🇨🇿 krk

🇸🇰 krk

🇨🇳 脖子

🇸🇮 vrat

🇮🇸 háls

🇰🇿 мойын

🇬🇪 კისერი

🇦🇿 boyun

🇲🇽 cuello

Word origin

The word 'neck' originated from the Old English word 'hnecca' and has been used to refer to the part of the body connecting the head and shoulders since the 14th century. In animal anatomy, it has been used to describe the corresponding part in animals since the 16th century. The verb form 'necking' to describe kissing or embracing dates back to the early 20th century.