Underarm Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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underarm
[ˈʌn.dər.ɑːrm ]
Definition
body part
The underarm, also known as the armpit, is the area on the human body located beneath the junction where the arm meets the shoulder. This region contains sweat glands and hair follicles and plays a role in regulating body temperature through perspiration. It is also an area through which lymph nodes filter lymphatic fluid. Underarm hygiene is important, as this area can be prone to odor and skin irritation due to bacteria. Additionally, various grooming products such as deodorants and antiperspirants are commonly used in this area.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He applied deodorant to his underarm.
- She raised her arms and exposed her underarms.
- The underarm area requires regular shaving for some people.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Anatomy
- The underarm is home to several important glands that help regulate body temperature through sweating.
- It's a part of the body that's also known as the axilla, which houses lymph nodes critical for immune function.
Hygiene and Culture
- Deodorants and antiperspirants became common in the early 20th century to manage body odor and sweat.
- In many cultures, underarm hair is either kept or removed depending on personal, cultural, or fashion choices, leading to varied beauty standards.
Sports
- Athletes often pay attention to their underarm area, using specialized products to ensure comfort during physical activity.
- Certain sports uniforms are designed to allow better airflow in the underarm area to help in cooling the body.
Health
- Changes in the underarm area, like unusual scents or lumps, can indicate health issues that should be checked by a doctor.
- Skin conditions such as rashes or ingrown hairs often occur in the underarm due to friction and moisture.
Language and Expressions
- The term 'underarm' can also be associated with phrases in sports, like 'underarm throw,' which refers to a specific style of pitching or throwing.
- Culturally, phrases like 'stinking up the place' often relate to issues involving underarm odor, illustrating how language ties to personal care.
Origin of 'underarm'
The term 'underarm' derives from the Old English word 'under' meaning 'beneath' and 'arm' from the Proto-Germanic 'armi', which is related to the Latin 'armus' meaning 'upper arm'. The usage of 'underarm' as a descriptor for the area beneath the arm has been in use since the 14th century. This term emphasizes the location of the armpit in relation to the arm and has evolved alongside the development of hygiene and grooming practices. Historically, cultural attitudes toward body hair and odor have influenced the importance of the underarm in various societies. In modern contexts, the term is commonly associated with personal care products designed for odor and hair removal.