nape

[ neyp, nap ]

noun

1. the back of the neck (usually used in the phrase nape of the neck ).

nape

¹

/ neɪp /

verb

1. slang:military.
   tr to attack with napalm

nape

²

/ neɪp /

noun

1. the back of the neck nuchal

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

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

Her long light brown hair, streaked with gray, was pulled back into a tight ponytail at the nape of her neck.

From Los Angeles Times

The hair at the nape of the neck, which is typically shorter, kinkier and considered more difficult to style.

From Seattle Times

Going forward, restorers plan to make fresh casts out of resin to replace the plaster patches that covered missing pieces, including on part of the nape of the neck and the pubis.

From Seattle Times

Seven stiffened, prepared for its claws to sink into her, or its teeth to grab the nape of her neck like she was a puppy.

From Literature

Related Words

• collar