The word Omohyoid is a mouthful and can be challenging to spell. It is pronounced /ˌōmōˈhīˌȯid/ and refers to a muscle that is located in the neck. The first syllable "omo" comes from the Greek word "omos," which means shoulder. The second part of the word "hyoid" refers to the hyoid bone, which is a small bone located in the neck that supports the tongue. So, the spelling of "Omohyoid" reflects its etymology, which combines the terms for shoulder and hyoid bone.
Omohyoid is a term used in anatomy to refer to a specific muscle located in the neck region of humans. It is primarily classified as a strap muscle and is present on both sides of the neck. The word "omohyoid" is derived from two Latin terms: "omohyoideus," meaning "the strap-like muscle of the shoulder," and "omyon," which translates to "shoulder."
The omohyoid muscle originates from the superior border of the scapula (shoulder blade) near the suprascapular notch and extends upwards towards the hyoid bone. It is divided into two distinct bellies, the superior and inferior bellies. The superior belly attaches to the hyoid bone, a small U-shaped bone located at the base of the tongue. The inferior belly, on the other hand, connects to the clavicle, commonly known as the collarbone.
The primary function of the omohyoid muscle is to aid in the movement and stabilization of the hyoid bone during various actions, such as swallowing, speaking, and breathing. Additionally, it also assists in controlling the position of the larynx (voice box) and helps in maintaining proper tension within the neck muscles.
In summary, the omohyoid muscle is an essential component of the human neck anatomy, playing a crucial role in facilitating movements of the hyoid bone and larynx, contributing to the processes of swallowing, speech, and respiration.
Noting a digastric muscle attached to the scapula and the hyoid bone.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A name given to a muscle attached to the hyoid bone and the shoulder.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Omohyoid" is derived from two Greek components: "omo-" meaning "shoulder" and "hyoid" referring to the hyoid bone found in the neck. The hyoid bone is shaped like a horseshoe and is located at the base of the tongue. It plays a crucial role in swallowing and speech. The prefix "omo-" in this context indicates the connection to the shoulder region. Therefore, "Omohyoid" refers to a muscle that connects the shoulder with the hyoid bone.