n.
- an internal organ in which the first part of digestion occurs, being (in humans and many mammals) a pear-shaped enlargement of the alimentary canal linking the oesophagus to the small intestine.
▸each of four such organs in a ruminant.
- the abdominal area of the body; the belly.
-
[usu. with neg.]
an appetite or desire for something.
v.
(
usu. cannot stomach)
- consume (food or drink) without feeling sick.
- endure or accept.
Phrase
- a strong stomach
an ability to see or do unpleasant things without feeling sick or squeamish.
Derivative
- stomachful n.
(pl. stomachfuls)
.
Etymology
ME: from OFr. estomac, stomaque, via L. from Gk stomakhos ‘gullet’.