What does nose mean?
Nose most commonly means the projecting feature of the face above the mouth. It contains the nostrils and is involved in breathing and smelling, but it also serves as a focus for expressions of emotion: people wrinkle, touch, or turn their noses in response to odors, discomfort, curiosity, or disdain. The word has several extended meanings. A vehicle or aircraft may be described by the position of its nose, and a person may be “on the nose” of a place or target. Informally, a nose can mean an informant, while phrases such as “keep your nose clean” refer to good behavior. Although usually concrete and physical, the word can also suggest instinct or boldness, as in “having the nose for business.” Its broad metaphorical range makes it useful for describing both literal features and attitudes, judgments, and sources of information.
The projecting facial feature above the mouth, containing the nostrils and used for smelling and breathing.
"He blew his nose before the meeting."
By extension, the nose can mean the front of a vehicle or other object, and in informal use it can mean an informant or source.
To move or turn the nose toward or into something, especially in a way that suggests searching, sniffing, or interfering.
"The dog nosed the ground as it followed the scent."
This use is less common than the noun and is typically transitive, as in “nosed the package open.” It can also mean to meddle or interfere when used in phrases such as “nose around.”
The usual plural is noses. In idiomatic expressions, however, compounds such as “nose job” and “tip of the nose” generally do not change form.
"The children touched their noses before crossing the street."
Your nose helps you breathe, smell, and express emotion, from a subtle sniff to a dramatic wrinkle.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of nose
The English word comes from Old English nosu, meaning the external feature of the face. It continues a Germanic root associated with the nose and with related forms found in words such as nasal and nostril. English developed several derivatives, including nasal, nostril, and nasalize, while nuzzle also reflects the same broad nasal or nose-related vocabulary.
Related word forms
How nose is actually used
In its idiomatic uses, the word is often informal or colloquial. “Keep your nose clean” means to avoid trouble, while “on the nose” means exactly on time or precisely on target.
Easily confused with nose
A nose is the facial feature used for smelling and breathing, whereas a noose is a loop of rope used for hanging.