Informal term for courage and determination; also the internal organs or intestines of a person or animal. Can refer to the essential parts or contents of something.
From Old English 'guttas', plural of 'gut' meaning 'bowel, intestine'. The metaphorical sense of 'courage' developed from the belief that strong emotions and bravery originated in the belly or intestines, similar to expressions like 'gut feeling' or 'butterflies in your stomach'.
The connection between intestines and courage reflects ancient beliefs about the body's emotional centers - many cultures located bravery in the belly rather than the heart. Modern neuroscience has validated this intuition somewhat, as the enteric nervous system in our intestines significantly influences mood and decision-making.
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