FALSE RIB Meaning and
Definition
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A false rib is a term used in anatomy to describe any of the ribs that are not directly attached to the sternum (breastbone) through a costal cartilage. In the human body, there are twelve pairs of ribs, and the first seven pairs are considered true ribs, as they have a direct anterior connection to the sternum. False ribs, on the other hand, include ribs eight to twelve, which do not have a direct attachment to the sternum but are instead linked to the seventh rib or the rib above it by short, cartilaginous extensions known as costal cartilages.
The false ribs are so named because they lack the direct connection to the sternum, providing a less secure and relatively looser structure compared to true ribs. This anatomical arrangement contributes to the flexibility and mobility of the ribcage, allowing for expansion during breathing and movement of the upper body. False ribs also demonstrate variation among individuals, with some lacking attachment to the sternum altogether.
Additionally, the term "false rib" may specifically refer to the lower three pairs of false ribs (tenth to twelfth ribs) known as "floating ribs" since they do not possess any anterior attachment or connection via costal cartilage. Floating ribs have a free, unattached posterior end that concludes within the abdominal muscles, making them more vulnerable to injury due to their less protected position.
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Costa spuria, one of the five lower ribs on either side which do not articulate with the sternum directly.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for FALSE RIB
- dalse rib
- calse rib
- valse rib
- galse rib
- talse rib
- ralse rib
- fzlse rib
- fslse rib
- fwlse rib
- fqlse rib
- fakse rib
- fapse rib
- faose rib
- falae rib
- falze rib
- falxe rib
- falde rib
- falee rib
- falwe rib
- falsw rib
Etymology of FALSE RIB
The term "false rib" derives from the Old English word "fæls" (meaning deceitful or deceptive) and the Old English word "reb" (meaning rib). It is based on the belief that the lower ribs, also known as "floating ribs", were deceptive because they are not directly attached to the sternum like the upper ribs. Instead, they are only connected to the spine. Therefore, they were considered "false" in comparison to the "true" ribs, which are directly connected to the sternum.
Similar spelling words for FALSE RIB
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