FURCULA Meaning and
Definition
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Furcula, also known as a wishbone, is a bone found in the bodies of certain animals, particularly birds. The term "furcula" is derived from the Latin word "furca," meaning "fork," referring to its fork-like shape. It is a paired bone structure formed by the fusion of the clavicles or collarbones.
The furcula is situated in the upper chest region, connecting the sternum or breastbone with the shoulder joints. It plays a crucial role in wing movement and provides stability during flight. In birds, the furcula acts as a spring, storing and releasing energy during wing flapping, aiding in the bird's ability to fly efficiently.
This unique bone has gained cultural significance and is often associated with good luck or wishes. When dried and snapped by two individuals, it is believed that the person holding the larger piece will have their wish granted. The tradition of breaking the furcula dates back to ancient times and has been observed in various cultures worldwide.
Beyond its role in avian anatomy and symbolism, the term "furcula" has also been used metaphorically to describe other fork-like structures or arrangements in different areas, such as the structure of certain insects or the branching form of a river or a tree.
Common Misspellings for FURCULA
- durcula
- vurcula
- gurcula
- turcula
- rurcula
- fyrcula
- fhrcula
- fjrcula
- fircula
- f8rcula
- f7rcula
- fuecula
- fudcula
- fufcula
- futcula
- fu5cula
- fu4cula
- furxula
- furvula
Etymology of FURCULA
The word "furcula" has Latin origins and it means "little fork" or "small fork". It is derived from the Latin words "furca", meaning "fork", and the diminutive suffix "-ula" which denotes smallness or endearment. In ornithology, "furcula" refers to the wishbone, a V-shaped bone found in the chest of birds, which resembles a fork.
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