Nose

Definition

Nose is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to the part of the face or body used for breathing and smelling, located above the mouth in humans and animals. As a verb, it means to investigate, search, or approach something cautiously.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /noʊz/
• Respelling: nohz

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /nəʊz/
• Respelling: nohz

Etymology

The word "nose" originates from Old English "nosu," which is derived from Proto-Germanic "*nusō" and Proto-Indo-European "*nas-," meaning "nose." Related forms exist in many languages, such as Latin "nasus" and Sanskrit "nas."

Derivatives

• Nasal (adjective)
• Nosed (adjective)
• Nosing (verb form)
• Nosy (adjective, informal)
• Nostril (noun)

Synonyms

• Snout
• Proboscis
• Muzzle

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "nose" is widely used in both literal and figurative contexts. For example, "She has a small nose," or "He has a nose for solving mysteries."

Related Terms

• Smell: The sense related to the nose.
• Scent: A distinct smell, often pleasant.
• Sniff: To draw air through the nose to perceive odors.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The part of the face or body used for breathing and smelling:
  • Example: "He pinched his nose to avoid the bad smell."
• The front end of a vehicle or object:
  • Example: "The nose of the airplane touched the runway."
• A figurative sense of detecting or discovering something:
  • Example: "She has a nose for news stories."

Verb

• To investigate or search for something:
  • Example: "The dog nosed around the yard looking for its toy."
• To move or approach something cautiously:
  • Example: "He nosed the car into the parking space."