Soul

Definition

Soul is a noun that refers to the immaterial essence, spirit, or core of a living being, often considered immortal in religious and philosophical contexts. It can also refer to a person's emotional or moral nature or the quality of deep emotional expression.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /soʊl/
• Respelling: SOHL

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /səʊl/
• Respelling: SOHL

Etymology

The word "soul" originates from the Old English "sāwol" or "sāwel," meaning "spiritual and emotional part of a person." It is derived from Proto-Germanic "*saiwalo" and Proto-Indo-European "*saiwolos," related to concepts of life and the afterlife. Its use has evolved to encompass broader emotional and spiritual connotations.

Derivatives

• Soulful (adjective)
• Soulless (adjective)
• Soulmate (noun)
• Soul-searching (noun/adjective)
• Soulfulness (noun)

Synonyms

• Spirit
• Essence
• Consciousness

Antonyms

• Body
• Material
• Soullessness

Usage

The term "soul" is widely used in philosophical, religious, artistic, and cultural contexts. For example, "Her music touched the soul" emphasizes emotional depth, while "The soul is eternal" refers to its spiritual interpretation.

Related Terms

• Spirit: The vital essence of a person.
• Heart: Often used metaphorically for emotions or core values.
• Afterlife: A spiritual existence following death.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The immaterial essence or spiritual part of a person: Refers to the non-physical, often considered eternal, component of living beings.
  • Example: "Many believe the soul lives on after death."
• A person's emotional or moral nature: Refers to the core characteristics defining someone's personality or values.
  • Example: "He is a kind and generous soul."
• A quality of deep emotional expression: Refers to a profound emotional or artistic depth, often in music or art.
  • Example: "Her performance was filled with soul."