solar plexus

noun

1. Also called celiac plexus. Anatomy.,  a network of nerves situated at the upper part of the abdomen, behind the stomach and in front of the aorta.

2. a point on the stomach wall, just below the sternum, where a blow will affect this nerve center.

solar plexus

noun

1. Also called: coeliac plexus. anatomy the network of sympathetic nerves situated behind the stomach that supply the abdominal organs

2. (not in technical usage) the part of the stomach beneath the diaphragm; pit of the stomach

Word History and Origins

Origin of solar plexus¹

First recorded in 1765–75; so called from the raylike pattern of the nerve fibers

Word History and Origins

Origin of solar plexus¹

C18: referring to resemblance between the radial network of nerves and ganglia and the rays of the sun

Example Sentences

“It’s like a gut punch to the solar plexus,” coach Jim Harbaugh said in the aftermath of the July 27 injury.

From Los Angeles Times

The Chinese ban plainly hit Trump in the solar plexus.

From Los Angeles Times

For all of the good things in their performance it ended with a kick to the solar plexus.

From BBC

It was like a kick to the solar plexus of their team's chances of progressing, but they were here with their noise and their colour at Stade de Nice.

From BBC

Gel, “Attainable” An absolutely vicious punch in the solar plexus from one of the most exciting new bands in hardcore.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• abdomen 
• gut 
• insides 
• pelvis 
• tank 
• tummy