Bod

/bɑd/ noun

Definition

Informal term for body, especially referring to physical appearance or physique.

Etymology

Shortened form of 'body' that emerged in casual speech during the mid-20th century. The clipping follows common English patterns of informal abbreviation, similar to 'lab' from 'laboratory'.

Kelly Says

This casual term gained popularity in fitness and fashion contexts, often used when discussing someone's attractive physical form. It's particularly common in phrases like 'beach bod' or 'summer bod', showing how abbreviated slang can become deeply embedded in specific cultural conversations.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Slang for body; often used in contexts sexualizing women ("bod" in fitness/modeling contexts defaults to female bodies as objects of aesthetic judgment).

Inclusive Usage

Use "body" or specify context neutrally; avoid reductive aesthetic framing.

Inclusive Alternatives

["body","physique","frame"]

Related Words

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