The word "humeral" pertains to the humerus bone in the arm. It is spelled as [ˈhjuːmərəl] in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "hu" is pronounced as "hyoo" with a long /u/ sound followed by a /j/ sound. The second syllable "mer" is pronounced as "muh-ruh" with a short /u/ sound followed by a syllabic /r/. The final syllable "al" is pronounced as "uhl" with a short /u/ sound followed by a clear /l/ sound.
Humeral, an adjective derived from the Latin word "humerus," pertains to the upper arm bone, also known as the humerus. The term humeral can describe anything relating to or associated with this particular bone. In the medical field, "humeral" often refers to anatomical structures, conditions, or procedures pertaining to or involving the humerus.
When referring to human anatomy, "humeral" typically describes the upper arm bone's various features, such as its shape, length, or position in relation to other bones or joints. This term can be utilized to describe the humerus's articulation, which is its joining or connection with adjacent bones, such as the scapula (shoulder blade) and the radius and ulna (bones of the forearm). For instance, "humeral head" refers to the rounded portion of the humerus that articulates with the glenoid cavity of the scapula, forming the shoulder joint.
Moreover, "humeral" may be employed to describe medical conditions or injuries affecting the humerus, such as humeral fractures or humeral dislocations. Orthopedic surgeons, for instance, may perform humeral fixation or humeral replacement surgeries to treat these conditions.
In summary, "humeral" is a term used in anatomy and medicine to denote anything related to the upper arm bone, the humerus. Its primary usage encompasses anatomical references, conditions, or procedures centered around this bone.
Relating to the humerus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Pert. to the shoulder.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "humeral" originates from the Latin word "humerus", which means "shoulder" or "arm". It is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *h₂éḱs- ("shoulder") + -al (a suffix denoting "related to" or "pertaining to"). Thus, "humeral" refers to something relating to or pertaining to the shoulder or upper arm.