neck
UK[nɛk]US[nɛk]
n
The part of the body that connects the head to the shoulders.
n
A narrow part of something, resembling a neck in shape or position (e.g., the neck of a bottle or a guitar).
v
To kiss and caress amorously.
Etymology
The word 'neck' originates from the Old English 'hnecca', meaning the nape or the back of the neck. It is derived from a Proto-Germanic root \hnakkô, which itself likely has a Proto-Indo-European source related to the concept of a bend or a protrusion, a shape descriptive of the body part. Over time, its meaning generalized to refer to the entire connecting part between head and shoulders. This concrete meaning then provided a powerful and enduring metaphor, giving rise to numerous extended senses for any narrow connecting part or constricted section of an object.
Analysis
This is a simplex word of Germanic origin. The Old English form 'hnecca' referred to the back of the neck, nape, or spine. Its functional role is as a base noun or verb.
Examples
She wore a scarf around her neck to keep warm.
He carefully held the violin by its neck.
The bottle had a very long, slender neck.