Nape

/neɪp/ noun

Definition

The back of your neck, below where your hair usually ends.

Etymology

Origin is unclear, but possibly from Old Norse or Germanic roots. It appeared in Middle English around the 1400s with no clear predecessor, making it one of language's mysterious words.

Kelly Says

The nape has extra-sensitive nerve endings because it was an important spot for early humans to feel danger approaching from behind—your body still reacts strongly to touch there!

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