nape

American  

[neyp, nap] / neɪp, næp /

noun

1. the back of the neck (usually used in the phrasenape of the neck ).

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nape ¹ British  

/ neɪp /

noun

1. the back of the neck

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nape ² British  

/ neɪp /

verb

1. slang:military (tr) to attack with napalm

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Etymology

Origin of nape

Middle English word dating back to 1300–50

Example Sentences

With one hand she smoothed her dark blond hair, which was arranged in an elegant chignon at the nape of her neck.

From Literature

The game puts a group of competitors in a prison and outfits them with collars that digitally display card suit symbols – that change each hour – on the napes of their necks, where they can’t see.

From Salon

Boys' hair could not cover the nape of their necks, while girls with long hair had to tie it up.

From BBC

Her long tresses are twisted in an easy crown, flowing from the crest of her forehead to the nape of her neck and signaling her noble status.

From Salon

While the two bats hang upside down, the male climbs on the female’s back and grasps the nape of her neck.

From New York Times

Related Words

• collar