vrat

Vrat is a term used in several Slavic languages with multiple related meanings. As a common noun, vrat denotes the neck or throat. It is found in Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian and Slovenian usage as the standard word for the neck region and appears in anatomical terms and everyday expressions describing that area. In many of these languages, the plural form vrata means doors or gates, illustrating a semantic link among related words.

Vrat also serves as a verbal stem in these languages. The verb vratiti, meaning to return or to give back, is built from this root, with related forms such as vraćati appearing in various dialects. The relation between the body-part sense and the returning sense reflects historical semantic shifts within the Slavic language family.

Outside of grammar and anatomy, vrat may occur as a surname and as part of place names in parts of Central and Southeast Europe, reflecting historical naming practices. As with many short Slavic roots, its precise usage can vary by language and region.

In summary, vrat is primarily a Slavic term linked to the neck, with extensions into verb roots meaning to return and occasional use in toponyms and surnames. Its meaning is best determined by context, particularly language and region. Related forms such as vrata (doors) illustrate how closely related words can diverge in meaning.