Potbelly: meaning, definitions and examples

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potbelly

 

[ ˈpɒtˌbɛli ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

body shape

A potbelly is a rounded, protruding abdomen that often resembles the shape of a pot. It is commonly associated with being overweight or with certain lifestyle choices, such as poor diet and lack of exercise. While not a formal medical term, it is frequently used in casual conversation to describe a specific body type. Potbellies can occur in both men and women but are more commonly noted in older men due to changes in metabolism and fat distribution as they age.

Synonyms

abdomen, belly, gut, paunch, tummy

Examples of usage

  • He has a noticeable potbelly after years of neglecting his health.
  • The potbelly of the man reminded everyone of his fondness for beer.
  • After the holidays, many complain about developing a potbelly.
  • Yoga helped him reduce his potbelly over time.

Translations

Translations of the word "potbelly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 barriga saliente

🇮🇳 पोटबेली

🇩🇪 Bierbauch

🇮🇩 perut buncit

🇺🇦 пивний живіт

🇵🇱 brzuch piwny

🇯🇵 ぽっこりお腹

🇫🇷 ventre proéminent

🇪🇸 vientre prominente

🇹🇷 şişkin karın

🇰🇷 뚱뚱한 배

🇸🇦 بطن بارز

🇨🇿 pivní břicho

🇸🇰 pivný brucho

🇨🇳 大肚子

🇸🇮 napuhnjen trebuh

🇮🇸 bjórmaga

🇰🇿 сусын жатыры

🇬🇪 პივის მუცელი

🇦🇿 pivə mədəsi

🇲🇽 vientre cervecero

Word origin

The term 'potbelly' originated from the literal description of a belly that resembles the shape of a pot, suggesting fullness or roundness. The word 'pot' in Old English refers to a container used for cooking or storing food, and 'belly' has its roots in the Old English word 'bælic,' which means the soft part of the body. The combination of these two words came to symbolize not only a physically protruding abdomen but also often indicates a dietary lifestyle that contributes to such a physique. The usage of the term has evolved to encompass not just the physical attribute but also the cultural implications attached to body image and health. Over time, the association of potbellies with a sedentary lifestyle became more pronounced, particularly in Western cultures where fast food and processed foods contributed to rising obesity rates.