The spelling of "lower lip" is straightforward and pronounced as /ˈloʊər lɪp/. The first sound /l/ refers to a voiced alveolar lateral approximant where the tip of the tongue is placed at the upper teeth ridge. The second sound, /oʊ/, is a diphthong that starts with the sound /o/, which is pronounced with the lips rounded and the back of the tongue raised. It then moves smoothly into the sound /ʊ/, which is pronounced with the lips slightly rounded and the back of the tongue relaxed. Finally, the third sound, /r/, is a voiced alveolar trill or tap, produced by rapidly vibrating or flapping the tongue against the alveolar ridge. The last sound, /ɪp/, refers to a vowel sound pronounced with the lips forming a small circle while the tongue is in the middle position.
The lower lip is a prominent anatomical feature found on the lower part of the human face, extending from the base of the nostrils to the chin. It is the counterpart of the upper lip and plays a vital role in various functions, particularly in speech, eating, and facial expressions. Composed primarily of soft tissue and covered with skin, the lower lip is characterized by its plumpness and ability to move flexibly.
Functionally, the lower lip serves several purposes. Firstly, it aids in speech production, where it combines with the upper lip to form sounds like /b/, /m/, and /p/. Additionally, it assists in the mastication process during eating and drinking, helping to retain food and allowing for precise control of biting and swallowing. Moreover, the lower lip contributes significantly to facial expressions, enabling a wide range of emotions such as sadness, anger, or joy to be conveyed.
The lower lip is innervated by branches of the facial nerve, which provide it with sensitivity and mobility. It contains numerous small blood vessels, contributing to its reddish-pink coloration. The skin covering the lower lip is often prone to dryness and chapping, requiring proper care to maintain its health and prevent discomfort.
Overall, the lower lip is a crucial facial feature with functional and aesthetic importance, offering support and mobility that enhance human communication and expressions.
The etymology of the word "lower lip" can be broken down as follows:
1. Lower: The word "lower" comes from the Old English word "lӯġer" which means "more below" or "further down". It can also be traced back to the Middle English word "lāwer" which has the same meaning.
2. Lip: The word "lip" comes from the Old English word "lippa" which means "lip" or "rim". It can be traced further back to the Proto-Germanic word "lepjon" and the Proto-Indo-European root "leb-", both of which also mean "lip".