Pronunciation: [ˈɑːmpɪt] (IPA) 
The word "armpit" is spelled with the letters A-R-M-P-I-T. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /ˈɑːmpɪt/. The first sound is an open back unrounded vowel, represented by the symbol /ɑː/. The second syllable has a short sound of the letter "i", represented by /ɪ/. The word ends with a voiceless stop consonant "t". The spelling of "armpit" follows the English language rules for syllable stress and consonant-vowel patterns.
An armpit refers to the cavity beneath the junction where the upper arm and shoulder meet on a human or animal body. It is typically situated on both sides of the torso. Also recognized as the axilla, the armpit is an area sheltered by the arm and ribs and marked by the hollow found between the arm and the chest. Within this region, various structures converge, including muscles, blood vessels, nerves, lymph nodes, and glands.
The armpit is notorious for being a site for the accumulations of sweat glands, commonly referred to as the apocrine glands. These glands are responsible for producing a unique type of sweat generally associated with body odor. Due to this, the armpit is often seen as an area that requires regular hygiene to prevent odor and maintain cleanliness.
Moreover, the armpit is frequently examined by healthcare professionals as a potential location for swollen or tender lymph nodes. Lymph nodes in the armpit can become enlarged due to infections, inflammations, or even cancer. Consequently, doctors frequently palpate the armpit to assess any unusual signs or symptoms.
In addition to its functional significance, the armpit has cultural symbolism in various societies throughout history. It has been considered an area closely associated with sensuality and attractiveness, eliciting a range of artistic representations. Therefore, the armpit holds a unique place in both anatomical and societal contexts.
Axilla, maschale, axillary fossa.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "armpit" originated from the Old English term "earmbeorg", which literally meant "arm" (earm) and "protection" (beorg). Over time, this term evolved into "eorm-boga" in Middle English, referring to the "bend of the arm". Eventually, it transformed into the word "armhole" or "arm-pit" in modern English. The word combines the description of the part of the body (arm) with its anatomical location (pit), given the depressed and hollow nature of that area beneath the arm.
