belly
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈbɛli/
KK: /ˈbɛli/
noun
Definition
The front part of the body below the chest, often used to refer to the stomach area or a rounded shape.
Example
After eating a big meal, I felt my belly was full.
Conversation
I just ate a huge lunch, and now my belly feels so full.
I know the feeling! Sometimes I can't believe how much I can eat.
It's like my belly has a mind of its own!
Right? And then I end up regretting it later.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
abdomen
stomach
tummy
Antonyms
back
spine
chest
transitive verb
Definition
To cause something to swell or bulge outward.
Example
The balloon bellied out as it filled with air.
Tense Forms
Past: belied
Past Participle: belied
Conversation
Did you see how that balloon bellied out when I filled it with air?
Yeah, it looked so funny when it got so big!
I thought it might pop if it bellied too much.
Root Explanation
The word 'belly' originates from Old English 'bælg', meaning bag or sack. It refers to the part of the body that resembles a bag or pouch, where food is stored.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'bag' ('bælg') that holds food — that's why 'belly' refers to the part of the body that stores food.
Visually Confused Words
bely
rebelly
besully
welly
selly
nelly
kelly
jelly