The word "hyoid" is spelled as h-aɪ-ɔɪ-d. This bone is located in the neck and supports the tongue. Its unique spelling can be attributed to the fact that it is of Greek origin, with "hyoides" meaning "shaped like the letter U". It is a critical bone for speech and swallowing, as well as for maintaining the shape of the upper respiratory tract. Despite its importance, the hyoid bone is often overlooked and understudied in medical education.
The hyoid is a small, U-shaped bone located in the neck region of humans and certain mammals. It is situated just above the thyroid cartilage and below the base of the tongue. The term "hyoid" is derived from the Greek word "hyoeides," meaning "shaped like the letter upsilon (υ)."
Functionally, the hyoid bone plays a crucial role in supporting the structures of the throat and facilitating various actions involving the tongue and larynx. It serves as an anchor point for various muscles, ligaments, and tendons that are involved in swallowing, speaking, and breathing.
The hyoid bone is the only bone in the human body that does not articulate with any other bone. Instead, it is suspended by a network of muscles and ligaments, allowing it to move in multiple directions. This mobility of the hyoid bone is vital for proper tongue movement during speech and swallowing.
Furthermore, the location and shape of the hyoid bone are of significant importance in forensic investigations, as it can help determine factors like the age and sex of an individual. Additionally, abnormalities or injuries to the hyoid bone may indicate trauma or other pathological conditions.
Overall, the hyoid bone's presence and functionality are essential for the proper functioning of the throat, mouth, tongue, and voice, making it a significant anatomical structure with a range of vital functions.
Y-shaped or U-shaped, noting the tongue bone, os hyoideum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• Having the form of an arch or of the Greek letter v.
• A bone situated between the root of the tongue and the larynx.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "hyoid" comes from the Greek word "hýoeidḗs", which is derived from "hýs" meaning "pig" and "eídos" meaning "form" or "shape". The term was coined by Greek anatomist Rufus of Ephesus, who observed that the hyoid bone resembled the shape of a pig's tongue. This comparison led him to name the bone "hyoid".