Nape
.jpg){kind=link}
The nape is the back of the neck. In technical anatomical/medical terminology, the nape is also called the nucha (from the Medieval Latin rendering of the Arabic نُخَاع, 'spinal marrow'). The corresponding adjective is nuchal, as in the term nuchal rigidity for neck stiffness.
In many mammals, the nape bears a loose, non-sensitive area of skin, known as the scruff, by which a mother carries her young by her teeth, temporarily immobilizing it during transport. In the mating of cats, the male will grip the female's scruff with his teeth to help immobilize her during the act,[1] a form of pinch-induced behavioral inhibition.
Cultural connotations
[edit | edit source]In traditional Japanese culture, the nape (項, unaji) was one of the few areas of the body (other than face and hands) left uncovered by women's attire. The nape of a woman's neck held a strong attraction for many Japanese men (see oshiroi).[2]
In Egyptian and Lebanese culture, slapping the nape is considered a gesture of utter humiliation.[3]
References
[edit | edit source]- ^ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2172: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
- ^ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2172: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
- ^ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2172: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
External links
[edit | edit source]- File:Wiktionary-logo-en-v2.svg The dictionary definition of nape at Wiktionary
- Error creating thumbnail: File missing Media related to Lua error in Module:Commons_link at line 62: attempt to index field 'wikibase' (a nil value). at Wikimedia Commons
Lua error in Module:Authority_control at line 153: attempt to index field 'wikibase' (a nil value).
