στήθος
stíthos/ˈstiθos/neuter
The English word "breast" can be translated into Greek as στήθος (stíthos), which is the default form. Wiktionary also lists μαστός (mastós).
Meaning: milk-producing organ (noun)
Ways to say it
| Greek | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| στήθος | stíthos | /ˈstiθos/ | neuter |
| μαστός | mastós | /maˈstos/ | formal, masculine |
The term refers to the milk-producing organ.
Which one should you use?
στήθος is a neutral term that is also used as the standard word for the 'chest' in a general anatomical sense. In contrast, μαστός is specifically a formal term for the breast.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
στήθος is the common, neutral term. μαστός is a formal term, and Βυζί is an informal term.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of the neuter noun στήθος is στήθη.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation of στήθος is /ˈstiθos/.
Did you know?
- If you use the informal term Βυζί in a polite social setting, it is considered much more vulgar and aggressive than the English slang 'boob'.
- The word στήθος is used in Greek to describe the 'breastplate' of an ancient soldier, showing its historical connection to protection and the front of the body.
- In Greek poetry and literature, στήθος is often used metaphorically to represent the 'heart' or the seat of emotions and courage.
Examples in context
- Το μωρό έψαχνε το στήθος της μάνας του να θηλάσει.The baby was looking for its mother's breast in order to be fed.This sentence shows the use of στήθος in the context of breastfeeding.Tatoeba #9677113 by Nylez, translation #9698303 by Nylez
- Ο γιατρός εξέταζε το στήθος της ασθενούς.The doctor examined the patient's breast.
- Η ζημία περιορίζεται στο δεξί μαστό.The damage is limited to the right breast.
- Ξέχασα να φορέσω σουτιέν και ένιωθα άβολα με τα βυζιά μου.I forgot to wear a bra and I felt uncomfortable with my breasts.
Example conversation
A couple discussing health symptoms at home.
- Γιώργος GiorgosΤι έχεις, Kyriaki. Φαίνεσαι ανησυχουμένη.Ti echeis, Kyriaki? Fainesai anisychoumeni.What's wrong, Kyriaki? You look worried.
- Κυριακή KyriakiΝιώθω έναν όγκο στο στήθος μου.Niotho enan ogko sto sthithos mou.I feel a lump in my breast.
- Γιώργος GiorgosΠρέπει να πας στον γιατρό αμέσως.Prepei na pas ston giatro amesos.You must go to the doctor immediately.
- Κυριακή KyriakiΈχεις δίκιο, θα κλείσω ένα ραντεβού.Echeis dikio, tha kliso ena rantevou.You are right, I will book an appointment.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “breast” translations and entries στήθος, μαστός, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
