Nape

For other uses, seeNape (disambiguation).

Thenapeis the back of theneck.In technical anatomical/medical terminology, the nape is also called thenucha(from theMedieval Latinrendering of theArabicنُخَاع,'spinal marrow'). The corresponding adjective isnuchal,as in the termnuchal rigidityforneck stiffness.

The uncovered nape of amaiko's neck

Cat carrying a kitten by its nape, known as the "scruff"

In many mammals, the nape bears a loose, non-sensitive area of skin, known as thescruff,by which a mother carries her young by her teeth, temporarily immobilizing it during transport. In the mating ofcats,the male will grip the female's scruff with his teeth to help immobilize her during the act,a form ofpinch-induced behavioral inhibition.

Cultural connotations

In traditional Japanese culture, the nape(Hạng,unaji)was one of the few areas of the body (other than face and hands) left uncovered by women's attire. The nape of a woman's neck held a strong attraction for many Japanese men (seeoshiroi).

In Egyptian and Lebanese culture, slapping the nape is considered a gesture of utter humiliation.

External links

• The dictionary definition ofnapeat Wiktionary
• Media related toNapeat Wikimedia Commons