Costilla is a Spanish word that means "rib." The correct pronunciation of this word is /ko'sti.ʎa/ where "c" is pronounced like "k," "o" is pronounced as "oh," "ti" sounds like "tee," "ll" is pronounced as a "y" in "yes," and "a" sounds like "ah." The spelling of "costilla" follows the phonetic rules of Spanish pronunciation. It is crucial to learn IPA phonetic transcription to improve one's language skills and correctly pronounce words from different languages.
Costilla is a Spanish noun that refers to a specific part of the human or animal body, commonly translated as "rib" in English. It specifically pertains to any of the elongated bones that frame and protect the thoracic cavity. In anatomy, each individual costilla is classified as a flat bone, typically connected to the sternum or breastbone in the front, and to the respective vertebrae of the thoracic spine in the back.
Costillas play a crucial role in supporting and protecting the vital organs located within the thoracic cavity, such as the heart and lungs. They also serve as an important attachment site for various muscles involved in respiration and movement of the chest. In animals, the costillas serve a similar purpose, providing structural integrity and safeguarding internal organs.
Additionally, the term "costilla" is often associated with culinary contexts, referring to a particular cut of meat. In this sense, it primarily denotes the rib section of beef or pork, which is highly valued for its tenderness and rich flavor. Various traditional dishes, such as Spanish-style grilled ribs or Mexican barbacoa, frequently feature costillas as a central ingredient, contributing to their delightful taste and succulence.
Overall, the word "costilla" encompasses both anatomical and culinary meanings, representing either the ribs of humans and animals in a physiological context or the choice cut of meat obtained from the rib section.
The word "costilla" comes from the Latin "costa", which means "rib" or "side". It has been derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *kost-, which also gave rise to words like "costa" in Spanish, "côte" in French, "costola" in Italian, and "Knochen" in German. The term "costilla" specifically refers to a rib, both in anatomy and culinary contexts.