Pronunciation: [kˈapɪtˌe͡ɪt] (IPA) 
The word capitate is spelled with a "c" instead of a "k" despite having a similar sound to the letter "k". This is because "c" is used before "a", "o", and "u" to make the "k" sound before a consonant, like in the word "cat". In capitate, the "a" is followed by a consonant, the letter "p", which changes the pronunciation to "cap" followed by "itate". Capitate refers to a bone in the wrist that is shaped like a head, or "cap".
"Capitate" is an adjective that describes something or someone having a large or prominent head or a head-like structure. The term is derived from the Latin word "caput," meaning head.
In anatomy, "capitate" refers specifically to a bone located in the wrist, specifically the carpal bones. It is the largest and most central bone among the carpal bones of the hand. With a rounded shape resembling the head of a person or animal, it forms a joint with the metacarpal bone of the middle finger. This joint allows for flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction movements of the hand, contributing to its overall flexibility and dexterity. The capitate bone also serves as an attachment point for ligaments and tendons, adding stability and facilitating the movement of the wrist joint.
Outside the field of anatomy, "capitate" can be used metaphorically to describe things that have a prominent, noticeable, or distinctive head-like feature. This can apply to objects, such as a capitate flower with a large head of blossoms, or to people, where it might describe someone with a well-defined or conspicuous facial structure. In broader contexts, the term can be employed to depict anything that possesses a defining characteristic similar to the form or function of a head.
1. Head-shaped, having a rounded extremity. 2. Noting a hemispherical surface elevation of a bacterial culture; see cut under culture, A, 5.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
In bot., like a pin-head; having a rounded summit, as some hairs.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "capitate" originated from the Latin word "capitatus", which is the past participle of "capitare". In Latin, "capitare" means "to make like a head" or "to place a head on". This is derived from the word "caput", meaning "head".
The term "capitate" is used in biology and anatomy to describe a specific shape or structure resembling a head, such as certain bones or certain types of flowers.
