Body

/ˈbɒdi/

nounBeginner🔥Very CommonPhysical
2 meanings1 idiom/phrase2 questions

Definitions

2 meanings
1

The physical structure of a human or animal, including its organs and limbs.

/ˈbɒdi/

nounneutralBeginner
Physical

The physical structure of a person or animal

He hurt his body playing football.

💡 Simply: The physical self.

More Examples

2

The artist sculpted a human body.

How It's Used

Medical

"The doctor examined the patient's body for injuries."

General

"She exercised regularly to keep her body healthy."

2

The main or central part of something; the essential part.

/ˈbɒdi/

nounneutralIntermediate
Structure

The main part of something

The body of the report was well-written.

💡 Simply: The main part.

More Examples

2

The car's body was damaged in the accident.

How It's Used

Technical

"The body of the email contained important information."

Tip:Think of the main body of text in a document.

Idioms & expressions

body and soul

Completely; entirely.

"She dedicated herself body and soul to her work."

From Old English *bodi, from Proto-Germanic *bodi- (also source of Old High German *boudi 'body', Old Norse *boði 'messenger, body'). Ultimately of unknown origin.

The word 'body' has consistently referred to the physical form throughout history, with its metaphorical uses evolving over time.

Memory tip

Think of 'bodily' – it refers to the physical body.

Word Origin

Original meaning

"The physical form of a person or animal"

body languagebody mass indexbody of work

Common misspellings

badyboddy

Usage

70%Spoken
30%Written