spleen Definition

spleen
noun

1a. A delicate organ which, in humans, is situated on the left side of the abdomen and beneath the diaphragm. It is involved in the production of lymphocytes, and it also destroys red blood cells that are no longer functional and acts as a reservoir for blood;
1b. The equivalent organ in other animals.
2. Bad temper; moroseness.
3. Anger; spitefulness.

Example: vented his spleen by punching the wall
Thesaurus: anger, wrath, resentment, venom, acrimony, bile, animosity, bitterness, gall.

Derivative: splenetic

See separate entry.

Etymology: 13c: from French esplen, from Latin splen; senses 2 and 3 came about from the belief that this organ was the seat of melancholy.