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UK [ˈbɒdɪ] / US [ˈbɑdɪ] noun
Word forms "body":
singular body plural bodies

1) [countable] the whole physical structure of a person or animal, including the head, arms, and legs

My whole body ached.

We do not really understand how mind and body interact.

exercises to tone and shape the body

the human body

body weight:

Ants can carry many times their own body weight.

body fat:

A trained athlete has very little body fat.

a) the main part of a person's or animal's body, not including the head, arms, or legs

His head looks too big for his body.

b) the body of a dead person

Police found a body buried in the garden.

2)

a) [countable] a group of people who are connected in some way, often because they are involved in the same activity

body of:

There is a large body of people who would use public transport if fares were cut.

b) a group of people who work together for an organization or the government and have important responsibilities

The government has set up a new body to inspect secondary schools.

ruling body:

football's ruling body, FIFA

professional body:

The Institute of Chartered Accountants is a recognized professional body.

official body:

The Senate is the official body that deals with these issues.

••

See:

governing body

3) [countable] a large amount or collection of something such as knowledge, information, or work

body of:

There is a growing body of evidence to support this theory.

These films represent a major body of work.

4) [singular] the main or central part of a building, not including areas at the side or parts that have been added later

body of:

The body of the church dates from the 15th century.

a) the main part of a book or document, not including the introduction, notes, or appendices (= parts added at the end)

body of:

He is not mentioned in the main body of the text.

b) the main outer part of a car, not including the engine or wheels, or the main outer part of a plane, not including the engine, wheels, or wings

The body of the aircraft remained intact after the crash.

5) [uncountable] a thick healthy appearance of your hair

products designed to give body to your hair

6) [uncountable] the strong flavour of wine or another alcoholic drink

7) [countable] British a piece of women's or baby's clothing that fits tightly on the body and fastens between the legs. The American word is body suit.

•

- body and soul

- body of water

- in a body

- keep body and soul together

See:

foreign body, heavenly body