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Belly - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

The belly is the front part of the body between the chest and the legs, also called the abdomen. It is often used to refer to the stomach area in humans and animals.

belly

/ˈbɛli/ /ˈbɛli/

Definition:

The front part of the human body between the chest and thighs; abdomen.

Synonyms:

stomach, abdomen, tummy, gut

Part of Speech:

noun, verb

Antonyms:

back, spine

Common Collocations:

belly button, belly laugh, belly dance, belly fat

Derivatives:

bellied, bellying

Usage Tips:

Use "belly" informally for stomach; in formal contexts, prefer "abdomen." Avoid overusing in medical writing.

Common Phrases:

belly up to the bar, belly of the beast, fire in the belly

Etymology:

From Old English "belg," meaning bag or pouch; evolved to refer to the abdomen.

Examples:

  • 1. The baby giggled when I tickled her belly.
  • 2. He rubbed his full belly after the big meal.
  • 3. The cat stretched out on its back, exposing its soft belly.
  • 4. She wore a crop top that showed her bare belly.

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