Neck (disambiguation) facts for kids

A neck is a part of the body that connects the head to the rest of the body. It's a very important part that allows us to move our head in many directions. The word "neck" can also describe any narrow part of an object, like the neck of a bottle or a musical instrument.

What is the Neck in Your Body?

The neck is the part of your body that sits between your head and your shoulders. It's made up of bones called vertebrae, muscles, and other tissues. These parts work together to support your head and help it move.

Bones and Muscles of the Neck

Your neck has seven small bones called cervical vertebrae. These bones are stacked on top of each other and form a protective tunnel for your spinal cord, which carries messages between your brain and your body. Strong muscles in your neck help you nod your head, turn it from side to side, and even look up and down.

Why is the Neck Important?

The neck is super important for many reasons:

• Support: It holds up your head, which can be quite heavy!
• Movement: It allows you to move your head in almost any direction, helping you see, hear, and interact with the world around you.
• Protection: It protects your spinal cord, which is a vital part of your nervous system.
• Passageway: It contains important tubes like your windpipe (for breathing) and esophagus (for eating), as well as blood vessels that carry blood to and from your brain.

Other Meanings of "Neck"

The word "neck" isn't just for body parts! It can also describe a narrow section of many different objects.

Neck of a Bottle

Think about a bottle. The "neck" is the narrow part at the top, just before the opening. This design makes it easier to pour liquids without spilling them.

Neck of a Musical Instrument

Many musical instruments have a "neck." For example, on a guitar or violin, the neck is the long, thin part where you press down on the strings to change the notes. It's where the tuning pegs are often located.

Neck of Land

Sometimes, a narrow strip of land that connects two larger landmasses is called a "neck." This is similar to how your body's neck connects your head to your torso.