Neck
Neck
Neck (/nɛk/) is a part of the body that separates the head from the torso.
Etymology
The word "neck" comes from the Old English hnecca, which is of Germanic origin.
Anatomy
The neck supports the weight of the head and contains several vital anatomical structures, including the spine, trachea, esophagus, and blood vessels. It is surrounded by several muscles that allow for movement and flexibility.
Spine
The spine in the neck, also known as the cervical spine, consists of seven vertebrae. These vertebrae protect the spinal cord and provide support for the head.
Trachea
The trachea, or windpipe, is a tube that connects the pharynx and larynx to the lungs, allowing for the passage of air.
Esophagus
The esophagus is a muscular tube that carries food and liquids from the throat to the stomach for digestion.
Blood Vessels
The neck contains several important blood vessels, including the carotid arteries, which supply blood to the brain, neck, and face, and the jugular veins, which carry deoxygenated blood from the head back to the heart.
Related Terms
- Cervical: Pertaining to the neck.
- Larynx: The hollow muscular organ forming an air passage to the lungs and holding the vocal cords in humans and other mammals; the voice box.
- Pharynx: The membrane-lined cavity behind the nose and mouth, connecting them to the esophagus.
- Throat: The front part of the neck, situated in front of the vertebrae. It contains the pharynx and larynx.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Neck
- Wikipedia's article - Neck
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