# insides

/ˈɪnsaɪdz/ (US) · /ɪnsˈaɪdz/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/insides
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

the inner parts of something, especially the organs inside a person's or animal's body. You often use this word when talking about how your stomach feels.

For teachers: the internal parts or organs of a person, animal, or object. Typically refers to the digestive system or internal mechanisms in a general, non-technical way.

## Examples

- The spicy food really upset my insides.
- He took the clock apart to see how its insides worked, but he couldn't put it back together.
- The cold water sent a sudden, sharp shiver through her insides, making her regret the impulsive dive into the mountain lake.

## Pitfalls

- Not "My inside is hurting." but "My insides are hurting." — When referring to body organs or internal parts, the word is used in the plural form and requires a plural verb.

## Usage notes

- Takes plural verb agreement; often used informally to refer to the stomach or bowels.

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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.