Corpulent

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈkɔːpjʊlənt/

Definitions

• Having a large, bulky body; excessively fat.
• Characterized by an abundance of flesh or fat, especially in reference to a person's physique.

Usage Examples

• "The corpulent man struggled to fit into the narrow chair."
• "The corpulent nature of the statue made it appear solid and imposing."
• "Her corpulent figure was often the subject of gossip among the townspeople."

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "corpulens," meaning "having a large body" or "fat," from "corpus," meaning "body." The term entered the English language around the 15th century, retaining its connection to physical size and excess body weight.

Synonyms

• Obese
• Overweight
• Chubby
• Portly
• Bulky

Antonyms

• Slim
• Lean
• Thin
• Scrawny
• Gaunt

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "corpulent" is fairly consistent across English-speaking regions, although accents may vary. In some regions, the "u" may sound like a short "oo" (as in "book") rather than a long "oo" (as in "food"). Some non-native speakers may stress different syllables, depending on their language background.

Historical Usage

Originally, "corpulent" was used in literary and medical contexts to describe individuals with larger physiques. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it was often used in a more neutral sense, while modern usage tends to carry a more negative connotation due to its association with obesity and related health risks.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, corpulence has historically been associated with wealth, as those with excess food could afford to gain weight. However, in the 21st century, especially in health-conscious societies, corpulence is often seen as a health issue related to obesity, leading to an increased focus on body image and wellness.

More Information

Corpulence, when referring to physical appearance, is usually related to a person who carries excess weight. It can be considered a medical condition if it leads to obesity, which increases the risk of various diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension. Corporal weight management has become a key focus for public health and fitness trends, with increasing awareness of diet, exercise, and wellness practices to combat corpulence.