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Viscera Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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viscera

[ˈvɪsərə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

internal organs

The viscera are the internal organs of the body, especially those located in the abdominal cavity. They include the stomach, intestines, liver, and other vital organs.

Synonyms

bowels, innards, organs.

Examples of usage

  • The surgeon carefully examined the patient's viscera during the operation.
  • After the accident, the paramedics checked for any injuries to the victim's viscera.
  • The viscera play a crucial role in digestion and nutrient absorption.
  • The autopsy revealed severe damage to the victim's viscera.
  • She felt a sharp pain in her viscera, indicating a potential internal issue.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Viscera includes organs like the heart, lungs, liver, and intestines, all vital to survival.
  • In biology, understanding viscera is essential for studying anatomy and how organs function together.
  • Many animals possess a similar arrangement of viscera, reflecting evolutionary adaptations for different lifestyles.

Literature

  • In literature, references to viscera often evoke deep emotional states, emphasizing human vulnerability.
  • Writers use visceral imagery to create strong emotional reactions in readers, tapping into raw human experiences.
  • Classic horror literature often describes viscera in gory detail to elicit fear, making it a potent motif.

Cultural Significance

  • Certain cultures view the viscera as sacred, often used in rituals or as offerings in traditional ceremonies.
  • In some gastronomic traditions, dishes made from organ meats are cherished and considered delicacies.
  • Artistic representations sometimes highlight viscera to symbolize the fragility of life and the reality of mortality.

Medicine

  • Medical professionals examine viscera to diagnose diseases and understand health issues.
  • Surgical procedures often involve careful manipulation or removal of viscera, showcasing the complexity of human anatomy.
  • Emerging technologies, like imaging scans, allow doctors to visualize viscera without invasive procedures.

Origin of 'viscera'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Viscera' comes from the Latin word 'viscera,' which means 'internal organs' or 'entrails.'
  • In the past, the term was often used in a medical context to refer to the organs that were often studied or examined.
  • The word has been used in various forms in languages influenced by Latin, underlining its deep historical roots.

The word 'viscera' comes from Latin, where it originally meant 'internal organs'. It has been used in the English language since the 17th century. The term is commonly used in medical contexts to refer to the internal organs of the body, particularly those in the abdominal cavity. Understanding the function and importance of the viscera is essential in fields such as anatomy, surgery, and biology.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,430, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.