Langimage
English

belly

|bel/ly|

A2

/ˈbɛli/

front trunk area

Etymology
Etymology Information

'belly' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'belg,' where 'belg' meant 'bag' or 'pouch.'

Historical Evolution

'belg' transformed into the Middle English word 'bely,' and eventually became the modern English word 'belly.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a bag or pouch,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'the front part of the human trunk below the ribs.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the front part of the human trunk below the ribs, containing the stomach and bowels.

He lay on his belly on the grass.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to swell or cause to swell.

The sail bellied out in the wind.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40