1. Body: This is the most common meaning of "soma" in biology and medicine. It comes from the Greek word "sōma," meaning "body." Examples include:
* Somatic cell: Any biological cell forming the body of a multicellular organism other than a gamete, germ cell, gametocyte or undifferentiated stem cell.
* Somatic nervous system: The part of the peripheral nervous system that controls voluntary movements.
2. Drink: This meaning comes from the Sanskrit word "soma," referring to a divine, intoxicating drink used in Vedic rituals.
* Soma: In Hinduism, it is often associated with immortality, enlightenment, and spiritual liberation.
3. Drug: This is a more modern usage, often referring to the drug "soma" (carisoprodol) prescribed for muscle relaxation. This usage may be connected to the connection of "soma" with the concept of relaxation in Hinduism.
4. Other meanings: "Soma" can also be used in other contexts, such as in the name of the planet "Soma" in the fictional universe of the television series "Battlestar Galactica."
The specific meaning of "soma" will depend on the context in which it is used.