Humors Meaning and Definition
Humors
Pronunciation
/ˈhjuːmərz/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A humor is a fluid believed to be present in the body in various tissues and organs and particularly in the blood, liver, spleen, and brain. It was previously thought to be one of the four fluid humor components of the body, along with blood, phlegm, and yellow bile.
Examples
- The bodily humors played a significant role in ancient Greek and Roman medicine.
- The concept of humors was later replaced by the theory of bodily fluids.
Synonyms
- Liquids
- Fluids
Antonyms
- Solids
- Gases
Etymology
The word “humors” comes from the Latin “humores”, meaning “moistures” or “humidities”.
Usage Notes
Humors is often used in historical or literary contexts to refer to the concept of bodily fluids.
Cultural References
The theory of humors can be seen in works such as ancient Greek and Roman medical texts, as well as literature like Shakespeare’s “As You Like It”.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- a four humors system
Related Words or Phrases
- Blood
- Phlegm
- Yellow bile
Collocations
- bodily humors
Frequency of Use
Humors is a relatively rare term, but it can be found in historical and literary contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Humour