How Do You Spell PIRIFORMIS?

Pronunciation: [pˈɪɹɪfˌɔːmɪs] (IPA)

The word "piriformis" (pronounced pɪrəˈfɔrməs) is a muscle located in the buttocks region of the human body. It is responsible for controlling the movement of the hip joint and plays a critical role in maintaining posture and balance. The spelling of "piriformis" stems from its Latin origins, with "piri" meaning pear-shaped and "formis" meaning having a form or shape. Its phonetic transcription highlights the emphasis of the "i" in "piri" and the "o" in "formis," aiding in accurate pronunciation.

PIRIFORMIS Meaning and Definition

1. The piriformis is a term used to refer to a small, flat, pear-shaped muscle located deep within the buttock region of the human body. Derived from Latin, the word "piriformis" is a combination of "pirum," which means pear, and "formis," which means shape. The muscle originates from the sacral spine or the lower part of the spine near the tailbone, specifically from the anterior surface of the sacrum. It then travels diagonally across the buttock, passing behind the hip joint, and attaches to the top of the femur or the thigh bone.

   The primary function of the piriformis muscle is to assist in the rotation and stabilization of the hip joint. It acts as an external rotator of the thigh, aiding in the movement of the leg away from the body's midline. This muscle is also involved in maintaining balance while walking, running, or engaging in other physical activities.

   The piriformis muscle is of particular importance due to its close proximity to the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body. In some individuals, the sciatic nerve can pass directly through or underneath the piriformis muscle. If the piriformis muscle becomes tight, inflamed, or spasms, it can compress or irritate the sciatic nerve, resulting in a condition known as piriformis syndrome. This can lead to pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the buttocks and down the back of the leg.

   Overall, the piriformis muscle plays a crucial role in hip rotation and stability, and its interaction with the sciatic nerve can have significant implications for musculoskeletal health.

2. See under musculus.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for PIRIFORMIS

• oiriformis
• liriformis
• -iriformis
• 0iriformis
• puriformis
• pjriformis
• pkriformis
• poriformis
• p9riformis
• p8riformis
• pieiformis
• pidiformis
• pififormis
• pitiformis
• pi5iformis
• pi4iformis
• piruformis
• pirjformis
• pirkformis
• piroformis

Etymology of PIRIFORMIS

The word "piriformis" has its etymology derived from Latin. It is a combination of two Latin words:

1. "Pirus" meaning "pear" - referring to the pear shape of the piriformis muscle.

2. "Formis" meaning "shaped" or "form" - denoting the shape of the muscle.

So, "piriformis" essentially means "pear-shaped".

Plural form of PIRIFORMIS is PIRIFORMES