armpit: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
High (for literal sense); Low (for metaphorical sense)Neutral/Formal for anatomy; Very Informal/Slang for metaphorical use
Quick answer
What does “armpit” mean?
the hollow area under the arm at the shoulder where it joins the body.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
the hollow area under the arm at the shoulder where it joins the body.
A highly informal and derogatory term for an extremely unpleasant, squalid, or unattractive place.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in literal meaning. 'Armpit' is the standard term in both varieties. The metaphorical/slang usage is equally common. 'Underarm' (more common in US) and 'underarm' (in UK) can refer to the general area, especially in contexts like 'underarm deodorant'.
Connotations
Identical connotations for both literal and figurative uses.
Frequency
Equally frequent in both dialects for the literal sense. The metaphorical sense may be slightly more prevalent in American media/culture.
Grammar
How to Use “armpit” in a Sentence
the armpit of [PLACE]have [SUBSTANCE] in one's armpitVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “armpit” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- No standard verb form.
American English
- No standard verb form.
adverb
British English
- No adverb form.
American English
- No adverb form.
adjective
British English
- No standard adjective form. 'Underarm' is used attributively, e.g., 'underarm sweat'.
American English
- No standard adjective form. 'Underarm' is used attributively, e.g., 'underarm deodorant'.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in industries related to personal hygiene (deodorant, clothing).
Academic
Common in biological/anatomical contexts. The technical term 'axilla' is preferred in medical literature.
Everyday
Very common for literal meaning; informal figurative use is understood.
Technical
In medicine and biology, 'axilla' is the preferred term.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “armpit”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “armpit”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “armpit”
- Confusing 'armpit' with 'elbow pit' (the antecubital fossa). Spelling as 'arm-pit' or 'arm pit' (should be one word or hyphenated).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the literal anatomical term is neutral and not rude. The metaphorical use ('armpit of the country') is informal and derogatory towards a place, but not a swear word.
'Armpit' specifically refers to the hollow, anatomical cavity. 'Underarm' is a more general term for the entire area beneath the arm, often used in contexts like 'underarm deodorant' or 'underarm seam' on clothing. They are often used interchangeably in everyday speech.
No, 'armpit' is almost exclusively a noun. The related term 'underarm' functions as an adjective (e.g., underarm throw). There is no standard verb form.
Yes, it's a recognized and fairly common informal idiom for expressing strong disdain for a place. It is hyperbolic and humorous, frequently seen in travel writing, reviews, or casual conversation.
the hollow area under the arm at the shoulder where it joins the body.
Armpit is usually neutral/formal for anatomy; very informal/slang for metaphorical use in register.
Armpit: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɑːm.pɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɑːrm.pɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “The armpit of the world/country/state/etc.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of an 'arm' and a 'pit' (a hole). The area where your arm meets your body creates a hollow 'pit'.
Conceptual Metaphor
AN UNPLEASANT PLACE IS A BODY PART (associated with sweat and odour).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the most formal/technical synonym for 'armpit'?