belly

word

/ˈbɛɫi/
BE-lee
/bˈɛli/
BE-lee

Definition

The front part of your body below your chest, where your stomach is. It can also refer to the rounded stomach area of a person or animal.

Usage & Nuances

Common and slightly informal in everyday speech; 'stomach' is often used for the same body area, though medically they are not identical. 'Belly' is very common with children, animals, and expressions like 'belly laugh' or 'belly button'.

Example Sentences

The baby has a small belly.

basic

My dog likes me to rub his belly.

basic

He put the box on his belly.

basic

I ate too much, and now my belly hurts.

natural

He laughed so hard his belly shook.

natural

She lay on the sofa with a book resting on her belly.

natural