corpora

A researcher analyzes several corpora of historical texts on a large computer screen.

Definition

Noun (plural of ):
- Linguistics: "Corpora" refers to large, structured collections of texts or spoken language data used for linguistic analysis and research. These are typically stored electronically and used to study language patterns, usage, and frequency.
- Anatomy: In biology and medicine, "corpora" denotes multiple distinct bodies or masses of tissue, such as the corpora cavernosa in the penis or corpora quadrigemina in the brain.
- General collection: "Corpora" can also mean any plural bodies or collections of written works, manuscripts, or documents, especially those considered authoritative or comprehensive.

Usage Examples

Advanced Usage

"Corpora" in corpus linguistics: The term is central to computational linguistics and lexicography. For example, (A specific, annotated text collection.)
"Corpora" in biology: In medical contexts, are the fibrous remnants of ovarian follicles after ovulation. (Specific plural anatomical structures.)

Variants and Related Words

Corpus (n, singular): a single collection or body.
- The corpus of Shakespeare's works is vast. (The complete body of his writings.)
Corporeal (adj): relating to a physical body; tangible.
- The ghost had no corporeal form. (Not having a physical body.)
Corpuscle (n): a minute body or cell in an organism, especially a blood cell.
- Red blood corpuscles carry oxygen. (Small cellular bodies.)

Synonyms

Related Idioms

"Corpus delicti" (legal term): the body of evidence proving a crime has been committed.
- Without a corpus delicti, the prosecution cannot proceed. (The factual basis for a crime.)
"Habeas corpus" (legal term): a writ requiring a person under arrest to be brought before a judge.
- The prisoner filed a writ of habeas corpus. (A legal order to challenge unlawful detention.)

Phrasal Verbs