Navel
/ˈneɪvəl/
Navel: the belly button on a human body and, metaphorically, a central or focal point.
Examples
- She cleaned her navel with a cotton swab yesterday.
- Their research aimed to locate the navel of the disease outbreak.
- The navel's scar faded as the child grew.
- The baby’s navel will close naturally within weeks.
- He felt a tickle around his navels during the massage.
Meanings
The word comes from Old English nafela, which in turn derives from Proto‑Germanic nabǭlaz, referring to the belly button of a newborn.
Examples
- Navel is often covered by a belly button piercing.
- She cleaned her navel with a cotton swab yesterday.
- The baby’s navel will close naturally within weeks.
- He felt a tickle around his navels during the massage.
- The navel's scar faded as the child grew.
The metaphorical use developed in the 16th century, likening a central location to the body's navel as a point of connection.
Examples
- The ancient city was considered the navel of the empire.
- Scientists call this region the navel of the galaxy.
- He felt the small town was the navel of his memories.
- The festival turned the square into the navel of celebration.
- Their research aimed to locate the navel of the disease outbreak.