nape

[neyp, nap]

noun

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

nape

¹

/ neɪp /

noun

1. the back of the neck

nape

²

/ neɪp /

verb

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of nape¹

Middle English word dating back to 1300–50

Word History and Origins

Origin of nape¹

C13: of unknown origin

Example Sentences

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

Read more on 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.

Read more on Salon

We see a close-up of the nape of a young man’s neck as he’s pulling off his T-shirt; he’s wearing a silver chain.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

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

Read more on 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.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• collar