# body

/ˈbɑdi/ (US) · /bˈɒdi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/body
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. physical frame

noun · CEFR A1

the whole physical structure of a person or animal.

For teachers: the entire physical organism of a human or animal, whether living or dead.

- You should exercise regularly to keep your body healthy and strong.
- The athlete's body was perfectly conditioned for the marathon after months of rigorous endurance training and strict nutritional management.

### 2. main part of a text

noun · CEFR B1

the main part of a letter, book, or article, not including the start or end.

For teachers: the central or main portion of a document or composition, distinct from the introduction, conclusion, or appendices.

- The body of the email explained the details of the new project.
- While the introduction was brief, the body of the report contained a comprehensive analysis of the quarterly financial data.

### 3. an organized group

noun · CEFR B2 · Formal

a group of people who work together for a specific purpose.

For teachers: a collective group of people organized for a particular function or task.

- The student body voted to change the school's lunch menu.
- The governing body of the university met to discuss the proposed changes to the faculty tenure policy.

### 4. a large amount

noun · CEFR B2

a large amount or collection of something, like information or water.

For teachers: a substantial collection or mass of something, often used for knowledge or water.

- There is a growing body of evidence that suggests sleep is vital for memory.
- The researchers examined a vast body of literature before concluding that the previous theories were outdated.

### 5. physical object

noun · CEFR B2 · Technical

an object in space or a solid item.

For teachers: a separate physical entity or a three-dimensional object.

- The moon is a natural body that orbits the Earth.
- In physics, a rigid body is an idealization of a solid object in which deformation is neglected.

### 6. to defeat or overpower

verb · CEFR C1 · Slang · Informal

to completely defeat someone, especially in a game or a fight.

For teachers: to decisively defeat or overpower an opponent; often used in competitive contexts or gaming.

- Our team totally bodied the other side in the final match.
- The underdog unexpectedly bodied the reigning champion in the first round of the tournament, shocking the spectators.

Usage: This verb is transitive and usually describes a physical or competitive dominance.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.