Breast is a commonly used word in the English language, and it refers to a part of the human body. It is an important part of the anatomy of both males and females, with different functions in each. In this article, we will explore the different definitions and meanings of breast, its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and examples of usage.
Definitions
The breast is defined as the mammary gland of a human or animal, which produces milk for the young. It is also used to refer to the chest of a human being, especially that of a woman. In some contexts, it can also refer to the front part of a bird’s body.
Origin
The word breast has its origins in the Old English word “breost,” which meant “breast, chest.” It is also related to the Old High German word “brust” and the Middle Dutch word “borst.” The word has been in use for centuries and has evolved to its current meaning through various linguistic changes.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, breast refers to “either of the two soft, protruding organs on the upper front of a woman’s body that secrete milk after pregnancy, or the corresponding organs in a man.” The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines breast as “the front part of the body between the neck and the abdomen.”
Associations
Breast is often associated with femininity, motherhood, and sexuality. It is considered an important part of a woman’s body, and its appearance and size can affect a woman’s self-esteem. In some cultures, breastfeeding in public is considered inappropriate, while in others, it is a natural and accepted practice.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of breast include chest, bosom, mammary gland, bust, and thorax.
Antonyms
Antonyms of breast include back, spine, and dorsal.
The same root words
The word breast has several related words with the same root, including breastbone, breastplate, and breaststroke.
Example Sentences
- She felt a lump in her breast and immediately went to see a doctor.
- The baby was hungry, so the mother lifted her shirt and breastfed her in public.
- He had a tattoo of a heart on his chest, right above his breast.
- The bird flapped its wings and flew away, revealing its white breast.
- She wore a tight-fitting dress that accentuated her ample breasts.