Breast

Definition

Breast is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to the front of the chest, particularly in mammals where it includes the mammary glands in females. It is also used to denote a person’s chest area or courage in literary contexts. As a verb, it means to confront or face something directly.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /brɛst/
• Respelling: brest

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /brɛst/
• Respelling: brest

The pronunciation of "breast" is identical in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "breast" originates from the Old English "brēost," meaning "chest, breast, or bosom," and is related to Proto-Germanic "*brusts." Its original meaning encompassed the chest area of both men and women, later evolving in English to denote the mammary gland specifically in females.

Derivatives

• Breasted (adjective)
• Breasting (verb)
• Breastplate (noun)
• Breastfeed (verb)
• Breastbone (noun)

Synonyms

• Chest
• Bosom
• Mammary

Antonyms

• Back
• Rear
• Spine

Usage

The term "breast" is used in both anatomical and symbolic contexts, as in "The mother nursed her baby from her breast." It can also refer to courage or emotional strength, as in "He confronted the challenge with an open breast."

Related Terms

• Chest: The front part of the body between the neck and the abdomen.
• Mammary: Pertaining to the breast or milk-producing glands.
• Thorax: The part of the body between the neck and abdomen in humans and animals.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The front of the chest, especially the mammary glands in females: Refers to the part of the anatomy where the mammary glands are located, used primarily for feeding offspring in mammals.
  • Example: "The physician examined the patient’s breast for signs of infection."
• The chest area in general, especially in literature: Used more broadly to denote the chest or upper part of the body in both men and women.
  • Example: "She clutched her breast in surprise."
• Courage or spirit: In a literary or poetic sense, "breast" is sometimes used to symbolize emotional strength or courage.
  • Example: "With a stout breast, he faced the dangers ahead."

Verb

• To face or confront something directly: Refers to the act of meeting a challenge or obstacle head-on.
  • Example: "They breasted the mountain, determined to reach the summit."