Neck

The part of the body connecting the head to the torso. It supports and protects the spinal cord and allows for a range of motion. The neck contains vital structures like the trachea, esophagus, and major blood vessels. Figuratively, 'neck' can refer to a narrow or constricting portion of something, like a bottle neck or a mountain pass. It can also indicate closeness, as in 'being neck and neck' in a race. In idiomatic phrases, it is related to risks, as in 'sticking one's neck out' and can represent stubbornness like 'stiff neck'.

Neck meaning with examples

• The gymnast stretched her neck before the routine to prevent injury. The child held his mother's neck tight as they walked home. The shirt's collar felt tight around my neck. The doctor examined the patient's neck for any signs of swelling. He strained his neck trying to lift the heavy box, causing a sharp pain.
• The sculptor carefully carved the details of the woman's neck. The lion proudly displayed its mane around its neck. The scarf wrapped warmly around her neck. The arrow struck the deer's neck, and it fell quickly. The tight tourniquet constricted the blood flow in his neck.
• The racer won the race by a neck! That restaurant's service is a bottleneck around the kitchen. His sudden neck strain caused him to flinch. He would've caught the ball if his neck wasn't so rigid. A slight movement of the neck could be enough.
• The defendant claimed his injury was related to the car collision. He was neck and neck with his opponent. The doctor prescribed exercises to alleviate neck pain. It felt like a constant dull ache at the base of the neck. His neck was sunburnt after the long hike.
• She literally stuck her neck out to defend her friend. He was accused of having a stiff neck after the disagreement. During the operation, they must carefully treat the neck. They wrapped it around her neck to keep her warm. This particular wine bottle has a long neck.