bosom

Bosom is a term that refers to the chest or upper front of the torso. In everyday usage it most commonly denotes the breasts—the paired mammary glands located on the front of the chest in people assigned female at birth—but it can also refer more generally to the chest area or, in literary contexts, to the heart region or emotional center.

Anatomically, breasts consist of glandular tissue (mammary glands), fat, and connective tissue. The primary biological function in females is lactation, providing milk to offspring after pregnancy; this process is regulated by hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin. The external features include the nipples and the areola; sizes and shapes vary widely across individuals. In those with male anatomy, chest tissue is typically less developed, though hormones or certain conditions can lead to breast enlargement (gynecomastia).

Breast development is influenced by genetics, puberty, pregnancy, aging, and body weight. Changes over a lifetime can alter size and firmness, and cosmetic or health considerations can lead people to seek medical advice.

Historically and in literature, bosom is often used in poetic or formal language. It can also carry figurative meanings, such as the heart or inner feelings, or the expression "in the bosom of" indicating close proximity or belonging.