bosom
UK: ˈbʊzəm | US: ˈbʊzəm
n. 1. the chest or breast of a person, especially a woman
n. 2. a protective or intimate space (e.g., "bosom of the family")
n. 3. the part of a garment covering the chest
The word "bosom" traces back to Old English bōsm, derived from Proto-Germanic bōsmaz, meaning "curved surface" or "enclosure." The morpheme bos reflects an archaic sense of "body" or "breast," while -om is a suffix denoting a state or part. Over time, the term evolved from a literal reference to the chest to metaphorical uses (e.g., closeness or protection), likely influenced by the physical and emotional associations of the chest as a nurturing space.
She held the child close to her bosom.
He kept his secrets in the bosom of his family.
The dress had intricate embroidery on the bosom.
They found comfort in the bosom of nature.
Her bosom heaved with emotion as she spoke.