forehead
B1Neutral to formal
Definition
Meaning
The part of the face above the eyebrows and below the hairline.
Used metaphorically to refer to the front or most prominent part of something; sometimes used to indicate character or destiny (as in 'a high forehead' suggesting intelligence).
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily a noun referring to a body part; can be used in medical/technical contexts (e.g., 'frontal bone' is more technical).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Pronunciation differs significantly: UK /ˈfɒr.ɪd/ or /ˈfɒr.əd/ vs. US /ˈfɔːr.hed/ or /ˈfɑːr.hed/. Spelling is identical.
Connotations
No significant connotative differences between varieties.
Frequency
Equally common in both varieties, though the pronunciation difference is marked.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
He kissed her on the forehead.She placed a hand to her forehead.A frown appeared on his forehead.Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Slap one's forehead (expression of sudden realization or frustration)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare, except in metaphorical use (e.g., 'the forehead of the industry' meaning the forefront).
Academic
Used in anatomy, physiology, and descriptive writing.
Everyday
Common in descriptions of appearance, expressions, and health (e.g., feeling a feverish forehead).
Technical
Anatomical term; also in anthropometry (measurements).
Examples
By CEFR Level
- She has a small spot on her forehead.
- He wiped his forehead with a towel.
- The baby's forehead felt warm, so her mother took her temperature.
- He wrinkled his forehead in confusion.
- Her high, intelligent forehead was framed by dark curls.
- The boxer received a nasty cut above his forehead during the match.
- Anthropometric measurements included the breadth of the forehead.
- She pressed her forehead against the cool glass, seeking relief from the headache.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
FORE + HEAD = the FRONT part of your HEAD.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE FOREHEAD IS A CANVAS FOR EMOTION (showing wrinkles, sweat, etc.); THE FOREHEAD IS THE FRONT OF A BUILDING (prominent, leading part).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct calque 'front head' or 'передняя часть головы'. Use 'лоб'.
Common Mistakes
- Mispronunciation by non-natives (e.g., /fɔːrˈhɛd/ with equal stress).
- Confusing with 'fourhead' in spelling.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the standard British pronunciation of 'forehead'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. In British English, it is commonly pronounced /ˈfɒr.ɪd/ (two syllables, 'forrid'), while in American English it is typically /ˈfɔːr.hed/ (two syllables, 'fore-head').
No, 'forehead' is exclusively a noun in modern English.
'High forehead' is a very common collocation, often used in physical descriptions.
Yes, 'to slap one's forehead' is an idiom expressing sudden realization, frustration, or disbelief.
Collections
Part of a collection
Body and Health
A1 · 49 words · Parts of the body and basic health vocabulary.