In human anatomy, the term "loin" or "loins" refers to the side of the human body below the rib cage to just above the pelvis.[1] It is frequently used to reference the general area below the ribs.
The lumbar region of the spinal column is located in the loin area of the body.[9]
In contemporary usage, the term appears primarily in two contexts: where loins are "girded" in preparation for a challenge, or else euphemistically referring to human genitals.[1][2] In literature or poetry, to feel a "stirring" in one's loins may suggest sexual excitement.
The word "loincloth" in the Bible, is used to refer to an item of clothing which covers the loins.[10] The "fruit" of one's loins refers to offspring,[11] and "fruit of my loins" also appears in the King James Version.[12]
Loins may refer generally to the lower area of the body,[13] much like the term "below the belt" derives from a belt worn at the waist.[14]
When the long tunic of the Ancient era was the typical garment, the phrase "gird one's loins" described the process of raising and securing the lower portion of the tunic between one's legs to increase mobility for work or battle.[15] In the modern age, it has become an idiom meaning to prepare oneself for action, as in:
If your counselor says your aptitude scores show that you have the ability [ ... ], gird up your loins and start making a valiant try right now.[16]
It has been suggested by culinary professionals that tenderloin is the most tender cut of beef one can get.[19] The loin section of beef is fairly popular among consumers for its low fat qualities.[18] It is the source of filet mignon.
^"Do You Know the Parts of Your Pet Pig?". United Pet Pig Registry, Inc. Retrieved 2008-08-13. extracted from Reeves, David E.; H. Neil Becker; American Association of Swine Practitioners (1993). Care and management of miniature pet pigs: guidelines for the veterinary practitioner. Santa Barbara, California: Veterinary Practice Pub. Co. ISBN0-9603534-3-7.
