lies
/lis/feminine
The English word 'groin' is translated into Dutch as lies.
The term refers to the long narrow depression of the human body that separates the trunk from the legs.
Meaning: long narrow depression of the human body that separates the trunk from the legs (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
/lis/
Did you know?
- In Dutch architecture, a 'groin vault' is called a liesgewelf, using the same word for the human body to describe the intersection of two barrel vaults.
- The Dutch word lies shares a common ancestor with the English word 'loose', originating from a Proto-West Germanic root meaning 'to loosen' or 'to release'.
- In Dutch, the term lies is used to describe the 'groin' of a garment, such as the seam where the legs of trousers meet the torso.
Examples in context
- Ik heb pijn in mijn kruis na het sporten.I have pain in my groin after exercising.
- De pijn zit in de lies.The pain is in the groin.
- Hij heeft een blessure aan de lies.He has an injury to the groin.
- De lies is erg gevoelig.The groin is very sensitive.
Example conversation
Lucas is talking to Lisa about a sports injury.
- LucasLisa, ik kan niet goed lopen vandaag.Lisa, I cannot walk well today.
- LisaWat is er gebeurd, Lucas?What happened, Lucas?
- LucasIk voel een scherpe steek in mijn lies.I feel a sharp pain in my groin.
- LisaJe moet naar de dokter gaan.You should go to the doctor.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “groin” translations and entries lies, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries lies, CC BY-SA 4.0.
