Flesh

For other uses, see Flesh (disambiguation).

When used in a physical or biological context, flesh refers to the soft part of an animal, particularly the skeletal muscle and/or skin of the body (as opposed to organs, bones, and integuments such as shells). If a body appears plump or overweight (having high fat content), it may be referred to as "fleshy." Biologically, flesh can also be used in reference to parts of an animal eaten as food, or the tissue of plants.

When used in a philosophical, poetic or religious context, flesh can be used to refer to human nature, human sinfulness, or the substance/details of an idea. For example, a passage from the Bible reads, "the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak" (Matthew 26:41). In this case, flesh refers to human limitations and flaws as they contrast with spiritual perfection or righteousness according to Christian ideology. In the phrase, "let's flesh out that idea," the word flesh is used as an action word referring to uncovering the deeper meaning or details of an idea.

The word itself comes from Middle English, originating in the Old English word flǣsc, which is similar to the Old High German word fleisk and possibly to the Old English word flēan. With regards to meaning, flesh may be related to the English word flay, which is related to Old/Middle English words that mean "to tear."