Claviculus is a Latin word that means "small key" or "little key". The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /klævɪkjuːləs/. The first syllable, "clav", is pronounced with a "k" sound and the "a" is pronounced as "æ". The second syllable, "i", is pronounced as "ɪ" and the third, "cu", is pronounced as "kjʊ". The last syllable, "lus", is pronounced with an "l" sound followed by "əs". It can be a challenging word to spell due to the unusual combination of letters, but with practice, it can be mastered.
Claviculus is a noun that refers to a bone found in the human body. Specifically, it is one of the two collarbones that connect the shoulder blades to the upper part of the sternum or breastbone. The term comes from the Latin word "clavicula," meaning "little key," due to the bone's shape resembling a key.
The claviculus is a long, slender bone that is located anteriorly to the upper part of the ribcage. It acts as a strut between the arms and the sternum, providing structural support and aiding in the movement and positioning of the shoulder girdle.
In terms of its anatomy, the claviculus is an S-shaped bone, typically slightly curved. It has two ends: one lateral or acromial end that articulates with the acromion process of the scapula or shoulder blade, and one medial or sternal end that connects to the sternum via ligaments and cartilage. These connections allow for the claviculus to act as a sturdy brace, keeping the shoulder joint stable and facilitating range of motion in the upper limbs.
During physical examination, the claviculus can easily be palpated on the anterior and superior aspect of the chest, serving as a key landmark in assessing alignment and potential injuries. Fractures of the clavicle can occur due to trauma or stress, which may require immobilization or surgical intervention for proper healing.
One of Sharpey's fibers.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word claviculus is derived from the Latin language. It is the diminutive form of clavus, which means key or small nail. In Latin, claviculus specifically refers to a small key or a small bone. The word's use in anatomy comes from how the collarbone is shaped like a small key, hence being referred to as claviculus.