Tummy

ˈtʌmi

Meaning & Definition

noun
a child's word for stomach or abdomen.
After eating too many sweets, my tummy started to ache.
the front part of the body between the chest and the hips.
She patted her tummy gently as she relaxed on the couch.
used informally to refer to feelings in the stomach, often related to emotions or anxiety.
He had a funny feeling in his tummy before giving his speech.

Etymology

Diminutive form of 'tum', which is a variant of 'tummy' originating from the late 19th century.

Common Phrases and Expressions

hungry tummy:
A colloquial expression indicating a feeling of hunger.
tummy ache:
Discomfort or pain in the stomach.
tickle someone's tummy:
To playfully touch someone's abdomen, usually to elicit laughter.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Tummy trouble
I have some tummy trouble after eating that spicy food.
Tummy time
The baby needs more tummy time to strengthen its muscles.