Liver
/ˈlɪv.ər/noun
A large organ in the upper abdomen that processes nutrients, filters blood, and produces bile.
Did you know?The English word ultimately comes from a Proto-Germanic form meaning “the living one,” because ancient speakers associated the liver with vitality and life-force.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*leip-
“to stick, adhere”
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*librō
“liver”
Old English
English
lifre
“liver”
Middle English
English
liver
“liver”
Modern English
English
liver
“the organ that filters blood and produces bile”