nape

noun

ˈnāp  ˈnap 

: the back of the neck

Examples of nape in a Sentence

Her hair was tied back at the nape of her neck.

Recent Examples on the Web

Her hair was worn up in a tousled bun at the nape of her neck with dense bangs. — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 12 June 2026

Keep it low at the nape of the neck so the braid will really stand out. — Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 5 May 2026

The uncluttered nape of the neck adds a sense of freshness and lightness. — Adèle Bari, Vanity Fair, 26 Apr. 2026

Loose ends cascading from the bun and at the nape of her neck add a layer of whimsy and texture. — Sunnah Rasheed, InStyle, 24 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

nape

noun

ˈnāp  ˈnap 

: the back of the neck

Medical Definition

nape

noun

ˈnāp also ˈnap

: the back of the neck