B1noun1K

Chest

UK /["/tʃest/"]/US /["/tʃest/"]/

Definition

the top part of the front of the body, between the neck and the stomach

In simple words: The front upper part of your body where your heart and lungs are.

Examples

  • He felt a tightness in his chest after running up the stairs.
  • She opened the treasure chest to reveal its hidden riches.
  • The doctor examined her chest to check for any signs of illness.
  • In the game of chess, each player has a chest to store their pieces.
  • He placed the logs in the chest of the fire to keep it burning.

Usage notes

Used in both everyday and formal contexts to refer to the human torso or a large box for storage. Avoid in more formal medical discussions where specific terminology is preferred.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a treasure chest on your 'chest' where you keep your heart.

Collocations

  • barrel
  • big
  • broad
  • clutch
  • clutch at
  • beat
  • expand
  • heave
  • rise and fall
  • discomfort
  • pain
  • tightness
  • in the/​your chest
  • on the/​your chest
  • to the/​your chest

Synonyms

  • thorax
  • torso
  • upper body

Antonyms

  • back
  • abdomen

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'chest' as in storage box vs. body part.
  • Mispronouncing 'chest' as 'chestt'.
  • Using 'chest' in plural form when referring to parts of the body.