How Do You Spell NAVELS?
Pronunciation: [nˈe͡ɪvə͡lz] (IPA) 
Pronunciation: [nˈe͡ɪvə͡lz] (IPA)
Navels refer to the central convex depression or depression in the middle of the abdomen, typically located below the sternum. It is a prominent anatomical feature found in humans and some other animals, forming the remnants of the umbilical cord attachment that nurtured and connected the fetus to the mother during pregnancy.
In humans specifically, the navel is a small, circular scar resulting from the umbilical cord's detachment after birth. It is formed by the closing of the opening where the umbilical vessels entered the body to provide oxygen and nutrients. The navel serves as a secondary point of entry to the abdominal cavity, particularly for laparoscopic surgeries or piercings.
Occasionally, individuals may possess variations in the appearance of their navels. While most navels are concave, some people may have innies while others may have outies, in which the navel protrudes slightly. These differences stem from factors such as the way the umbilical skin healed or the presence of herniations, which can cause the navel to appear more prominent.
Beyond its medical significance, the navel has also carried cultural and artistic interpretations throughout history. It has been celebrated as a symbol of life and birth, featuring prominently in artwork, literature, and folklore. Furthermore, it has occasionally been adorned with jewelry, body paint, or other decorative elements, reflecting an aesthetic appreciation for this unique aspect of the human body.
The word "navels" has its etymology in the Old English term "navel", which has remained relatively unchanged in its spelling and meaning through the centuries. The word originated from the Proto-Germanic word "nabalaz", which meant "navel" or "belly button". This can be traced back further to the Proto-Indo-European root "nobh", meaning "navel" or "center". The navel refers to the depression in the center of the abdomen, and the word "navels" is used to pluralize the term, referring to multiple belly buttons.
