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Nostril Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nostril

[หˆnษ‘หstrษ™l ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

anatomy

A nostril is one of the two openings in the nose that allow air to enter the nasal passages for breathing. They are also involved in the sense of smell and play a role in filtering and humidifying the air we breathe.

Synonyms

airway, nasal passage, nose hole.

Examples of usage

  • He breathed in deeply through his nostrils.
  • She has a piercing in her left nostril.
  • The doctor examined the patient's nostrils for any signs of infection.
  • Nostrils are important for regulating airflow while breathing.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Anatomy

  • Each nostril leads directly into the nasal cavity, which helps filter and humidify the air we breathe.
  • Humans typically have two nostrils, but some animals, like certain reptiles, can have more.
  • The size and shape of nostrils can vary greatly among different species, affecting their sense of smell.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, nose piercings have been prevalent throughout history, often located in or around the nostrils.
  • The term 'flaring nostrils' can signify emotions such as anger or excitement, reflecting how our bodies express feelings.
  • In some cultures, the way people breathe through their nostrils is related to health practices, such as yoga breathing exercises.

Linguistics

  • The word 'nostril' originates from the Old English 'nosthr,' which meant 'nose hole' or 'opening of the nose.'
  • The term combines 'nose' and the Old Norse suffix '-rill,' which indicates a small channel or hole.
  • Different languages have unique words for nostrils, such as 'fosa nasale' in Italian, revealing cultural perceptions of anatomy.

Psychology

  • Research shows that the left and right nostrils can have subtly different roles in processing smells and emotions.
  • Nostrils play a significant role in what is known as olfactory perception, a vital aspect of human emotion and memory.
  • Many studies indicate that our sense of smell is closely tied to memories, influencing mood and emotional experiences.

Pop Culture

  • Characters in cartoons are often exaggerated with large nostrils to convey emotions more dramatically.
  • Nostrils have appeared in various songs and poems as a symbol of breath and life, emphasizing our connection to nature.
  • Famous for their 'nostrils up' expression, Persian cats showcase how nostrils can be a character trait in pets.

Origin of 'nostril'

The word 'nostril' comes from the Old English 'nosthr', which means 'nose', combined with the suffix 'il', indicating a diminutive form. The term has its roots in the Proto-Germanic *nostwล, which also relates to the Proto-Indo-European root *nas- meaning 'nose'. Over time, 'nostril' evolved to distinguish the individual openings of the nose, especially in the context of breathing and olfactory functions. The anatomical importance of nostrils has been recognized across cultures, as they are essential for life-sustaining activities such as respiration and the sense of smell. The structure of nostrils can vary significantly among different species, reflecting adaptations to their environments and lifestyles.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,816, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.