κοιλιά
Wordform Details
Translation: bellystomach
Part of Speech: noun
Inflection Type:
femininesingularaccusativeIs Dictionary Form: Yes
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: κοιλιά
Translation: belly; stomach; abdomen; tummy (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek κοιλία (koilia), derived from κοῖλος (koilos) meaning 'hollow' or 'concave'. The root is related to the English word 'coeliac' (relating to the abdomen) and 'coelom' (body cavity in biology). The connection to 'hollow' reflects the anatomical understanding of the belly as a cavity containing organs. This etymology helps distinguish it from στομάχι (stomach as organ) - κοιλιά emphasizes the external, hollow space aspect.
Mnemonics
- Think 'coil' - your belly coils around your middle
- Remember 'coeliac disease' affects the belly area
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Commonly used in everyday Greek to refer to the belly area, especially when talking about being full after eating, pregnancy, or physical appearance. Often used affectionately when referring to children's tummies.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: κοιλιά refers to the external belly area, while στομάχι specifically means the stomach organ internally
Notes: κοιλιά is more about external appearance and general abdominal area, στομάχι is more medical/specific to the digestive organ
Mnemonic: κοιλιά is the outside 'cavity' you can see and touch, στομάχι is the internal organ