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Spleen Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿฉธ
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spleen

[spliหn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

anatomy

The spleen is a vital organ located in the upper left quadrant of the abdomen. It plays a significant role in the immune system by filtering blood and producing lymphocytes. The spleen also helps remove old or damaged red blood cells from circulation. Additionally, it stores platelets and white blood cells, contributing to the body's ability to fight infections.

Synonyms

none.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor examined the patient's spleen for any signs of enlargement.
  • A healthy spleen is crucial for maintaining the body's immune response.
  • In some cases, a spleen removal may be necessary due to injury.
  • The spleen can regenerate itself if a portion is removed surgically.
Context #2 | Noun

emotion

Spleen can also refer to a person's ill temper or resentment. In literary terms, it often conveys a sense of melancholy or bitterness. This usage characterizes someone's mood or emotional state, expressing a deeper psychological condition or dissatisfaction with life.

Synonyms

bitterness, gloom, melancholy.

Examples of usage

  • He expressed his spleen in a bitter letter to the editor.
  • Her spleen was evident during the conversation about current politics.
  • Despite his humor, there was a trace of spleen in his remarks.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Located in the upper left side of the abdomen, the spleen plays a crucial role in filtering blood and recycling iron from old red blood cells.
  • It produces lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, which helps fight infections and disease.
  • While people can live without a spleen, its absence can increase susceptibility to infections.
  • The spleen also serves as a reservoir for blood, releasing it into circulation when needed, which helps maintain blood volume.

Cultural References

  • In literature, the spleen is often associated with gloominess, such as in the works of Edgar Allan Poe, where characters express deep melancholy.
  • The term 'spleen' has been used metaphorically in poetry and prose, symbolizing emotional distress or anger.

Medical Insights

  • Conditions affecting the spleen, like splenomegaly, can lead to an enlarged organ due to infections, liver disease, or cancers.
  • Splenic rupture can occur due to trauma, often requiring immediate medical attention and sometimes surgical removal.

Historical Beliefs

  • In medieval times, doctors thought the spleen was responsible for the body's 'black bile,' one of the four humors that influenced health and temperament.
  • Some ancient civilizations believed that consuming the spleen of animals could impart their strength to humans.

Origin of 'spleen'

Main points about word origin

  • The word โ€˜spleenโ€™ comes from the Latin 'splen,' which is derived from the Greek word 'splฤ“n,' both meaning the same organ.
  • In ancient times, people believed the spleen was the seat of emotions like anger and melancholy, which is why we sometimes use the phrase 'to have a spleen' about feelings.

The word 'spleen' comes from the Middle English term 'spleene', derived from the Latin 'splen' and Greek 'splฤ“n'. In ancient times, the spleen was thought to be the seat of emotion, temperament, and will, leading to the metaphorical usage of the word to express melancholy or ill humor. Historically, it was believed that an imbalance of bodily fluids, particularly related to the spleen, could result in various emotional states. The term has evolved over centuries, maintaining its anatomical significance while also acquiring a figurative meaning in literature and everyday language. This duality highlights how the understanding of human anatomy and psychology has shifted over time, reflecting the complexities of our emotional and physical health.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,595 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.