Gut

Part of Speech

Noun, Verb, Adjective

Pronunciation

/ɡʌt/ (American English & British English)

Definitions

• (Noun) The digestive tract, especially the stomach or intestines.
• (Noun) Courage, determination, or emotional instinct.
• (Verb) To remove the internal organs of a fish or animal.
• (Verb) To destroy the inside of a building.
• (Adjective) Based on instinct rather than intellect.

Usage Examples

• "He had a strong gut feeling that something was wrong."
• "The fish was gutted before being cooked."
• "The fire gutted the entire apartment complex."
• "It takes a lot of guts to start your own business."
• "His decision was purely a gut reaction."

Etymology

From Old English "guttas" meaning "intestines," related to Old Norse "gutr" and Middle Low German "gutte." Over time, the meaning expanded metaphorically to include courage and instinct.

Synonyms

• Intestine (for noun)
• Instinct (for noun)
• Disembowel (for verb)
• Destroy (for verb)
• Intuitive (for adjective)

Antonyms

• Brain (opposite of instinct)
• Construct (opposite of gutting a building)
• Cowardice (opposite of courage/guts)

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

Pronunciation remains largely the same across English dialects, though in some regions, the "t" sound may be slightly softened or omitted in casual speech.

Historical Usage

The term has been in use since Old English times, primarily referring to intestines. By the 19th century, it gained figurative meanings such as courage ("having guts") and instinct ("gut feeling").

Cultural Nuances

The word "gut" is often used metaphorically in modern language, such as "gut instinct" (trusting one's inner feeling) and "having guts" (showing bravery). It also appears in phrases like "gut-wrenching" to describe emotional distress.

More Information

The concept of "gut feeling" is supported by scientific research, linking the gut and brain through the enteric nervous system. Additionally, gut health is a major topic in modern nutrition, with probiotics and dietary habits playing a key role.