nape

The nape is the back part of the neck, extending from the base of the skull to the upper trapezius at the shoulders. It forms the posterior boundary of the neck and serves as a transition zone between the head and torso. In everyday language, the nape is often cited in descriptions of hairstyle, clothing fit, and touch.

Anatomy: The nape comprises skin and subcutaneous tissue overlaying multiple muscles, including the trapezius and splenius capitis, with deeper layers containing the semispinalis capitis and other deep neck muscles. The nuchal ligaments lie in the midline, and the occipital bone forms the superior border. The region overlies the upper cervical vertebrae, particularly C1–C3. Vascular and neural structures in the area include the occipital arteries and the greater occipital nerve; the spinal accessory nerve supplies the trapezius and traverses the posterior neck. Movement at the nape is enabled by the associated muscles, allowing extension, rotation, and lateral flexion of the head.

Name and variation: The term nape derives from Old English nap, with cognates in other Germanic languages; its exact origin is obscure. The appearance of the nape is influenced by hair length and skin tone, and it is commonly shaved or exposed in various grooming practices.

Clinical notes: The nape can be involved in neck injuries, whiplash, or skin conditions such as dermatitis. It is a region assessed in physical examinations, and care is advised during manual therapies to avoid compression of underlying structures. In culture and fashion, the nape is often highlighted for aesthetic reasons, as hair falls away from the neck in certain hairstyles and cuts.