Nose

The nose is a prominent feature on the face that acts as a sensory organ for the sense of smell. It is also commonly known as the “schnoz” or “beak” amongst car dealers.

Anatomy

The nose is made up of two nostrils that are separated by a septum. It sits on the bridge of the face, and is often subject to sneezing, itching, and booger-picking. The inside of the nose is lined with tiny hairs, known as cilia, which help to filter out dust and other particles that we inhale.

Function

The primary function of the nose is to smell. Humans are capable of detecting over 10,000 different smells, ranging from the sweet scent of a freshly baked pie to the pungent aroma of a pair of gym socks. Some people even have the ability to detect illnesses based on a person’s body odor - these people are often referred to as “nose doctors”.

In addition to its function as a sensory organ, the nose is also important in speech. The nasal cavity helps to modify sound as it passes through the mouth, which is why people with a stuffy nose have a distinctive “nasal” quality to their voice.

Cultural Significance

Despite its functional role, the nose has also played a significant role in culture and art throughout history. It has been the subject of countless jokes, from the classic “Why did the tomato turn red? Because it saw the salad dressing!” to the more modern “Why did the chemist break up with his girlfriend? Because he found out she was a gold digger!”

The nose has also been used as a political symbol, most notably in the case of Pinocchio. In the classic tale, the wooden puppet’s nose grows every time he tells a lie, making it a clear indication of dishonesty.

Conclusion

While it may not be the most glamorous or attractive feature on the human face, the nose is undeniably important. So the next time someone makes a joke about your “schnoz”, just remember - you’ve got over 10,000 reasons to be proud of it.