noun

nape

NAYP/neɪp/

The back part of the neck.

The nape is visible between his short hair and low collar.

A close rear view of a short-haired man, with the exposed back of his neck centered between his hairline and low shirt collar.

Etymology

The origin is unknown, though the source suggests a possible connection with Old French hanap, “goblet.” That proposal refers to the hollow at the base of the skull.

In context

Medical Research Foundation3:19

It is a small cutaneous nerve and supplies the skin on the nape of the neck up to the external occipital protuberance.

Back of Neck Anatomy | Surface Landmarks, Ligamentum Nuchae & Muscles Simplified

More examples

She tied her hair low at the nape.
The collar rubbed against his nape.
A small birthmark marked the nape of her neck.

Forms

nape · napes

Similar words

neck: Neck is the whole connecting region; nape is its back part.
scruff: Scruff commonly means the back of the neck or its loose skin; nape is more neutral anatomically.