n.1 the spiritual or immaterial part of a human being, often regarded as immortal.
2 the moral or emotional or intellectual nature of a person or animal.
3 the personification or pattern of something (the very soul of discretion).
4 an individual (not a soul in sight).
5 a a person regarded with familiarity or pity etc. (the poor soul was utterly confused). b a person regarded as embodying moral or intellectual qualities (left that to meaner souls).
6 a person regarded as the animating or essential part of something (the life and soul of the party).
7 emotional or intellectual energy or intensity, esp. as revealed in a work of art (pictures that lack soul).
8 Black American culture or music etc.
Phrases and idioms:
soul-destroying (of an activity etc.) deadeningly monotonous. soul food the traditional food of American Blacks. soul mate a person ideally suited to another. soul music a kind of music incorporating elements of rhythm and blues and gospel music, popularized by American Blacks. the soul of honour a person incapable of dishonourable conduct. soul-searching n. the examination of one's emotions and motives.
--adj. characterized by this. upon my soul an exclamation of surprise.
Derivatives:
-souled adj. (in comb.).
Etymology: OE sawol, sawel, sawl, f. Gmc