Nape


The nape is the back of the neck. In technical anatomical/medical terminology, the nape is also called the nucha ; the corresponding adjective is nuchal, as in the term nuchal rigidity.
In many mammals, the nape is the site of the scruff, a loose, non-sensitive area of skin by which the mother can carry her young, holding the scruff between her teeth. In domestic cats, the scruff is used when a mother cat transfers her kittens, either by carrying them away from danger or to a new nest or den site, and in mating, when the male cat grips the female cat's scruff with his teeth to help keep her relatively immobile. See Pinch-induced behavioral inhibition.

Cultural connotations

In traditional Japanese culture, the nape was one of the few areas of the body left uncovered by women's attire. The nape of a woman's neck held a strong attraction for many Japanese men.
In Egyptian culture, slapping the nape is considered a gesture of utter humiliation.
In African American culture, the nape is sometimes referred to as the "kitchen".
The nape is sometimes a target of body piercing.