Midriff

Midriff is the region of the body (in humans and some animals) that is between the chest and the waist. The term is most often used to refer to the visible part of this area when it is exposed by the clothing someone is wearing. The word "midriff" is derived from the Old English word "midhrif", with "mid" meaning "middle" and "hrif" meaning "belly".

Anatomy

The midriff is bordered superiorly by the diaphragm, which separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. Inferiorly, it is bordered by the pelvic girdle. The midriff area includes part of the stomach, the small intestine, and part of the large intestine, as well as the liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, and kidneys.

Cultural significance

In many cultures, exposure of the midriff is socially discouraged or is considered taboo, and the norms and laws of some countries prohibit or limit the exposure of the midriff in public. In the fashion industry, clothing that exposes the midriff is often associated with summer and beachwear, and it is common in athletic wear for certain sports.

Health and fitness

The midriff area is often a focus of weight loss efforts and physical fitness routines. Exercises such as abdominal crunches are often performed to tone the muscles in this area. The accumulation of fat in the midriff area is associated with a higher risk of heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

See also

• Abdomen
• Belly dance
• Crop top
• Navel piercing

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