Pronunciation: [njuːmˈatɪk bˈə͡ʊn] (IPA) 
The term "pneumatic bone" refers to a bone that contains air-filled spaces, commonly found in birds and some dinosaurs. The spelling of this word is based on the Greek word "pneuma," meaning "air," which is reflected in the initial "pn" cluster at the beginning of the word. The pronunciation can be represented phonetically as /nuːˈmætɪk boʊn/, where the "p" is silent and the stress falls on the second syllable.
Pneumatic bone refers to a specialized type of bone found in certain animals, typically birds, which contains air-filled cavities connected to the respiratory system. This type of bone is known for its lightweight, sturdy, and efficient design. The word pneumatic derives from the Greek word "pneuma," meaning "air" or "breath," highlighting the essential characteristic of air-filled spaces within these bones.
The presence of these air sacs within pneumatic bones serves various purposes. Firstly, they contribute to reducing the overall weight of the skeleton, enabling birds to fly and maneuver more easily. Additionally, these air sacs are interconnected with the respiratory system, playing a fundamental role in efficient respiration and providing supplementary oxygen during strenuous activities like flight.
The specialized structure of pneumatic bones varies substantially depending on the species. For instance, in birds, pneumatic bones are predominantly found in the axial skeleton, such as the long bones of the wings and legs, as well as the vertebrae and ribs. In some cases, certain cranial bones may also possess air cavities.
Overall, pneumatic bones are a notable adaptation that allows for improved mechanical performance and flight capabilities in birds. The unique design of these bones demonstrates the remarkable adaptations that have developed in different animal species, emphasizing their incredible diversity and functional versatility.
• Hollow b., one containing many air-cells.
• Hollow bone, one which contains many air-cells.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "pneumatic" is derived from the Greek word "pneuma", meaning "air" or "breath". It is commonly used in English to describe something related to air or gas. The term "pneumatic bone" specifically refers to the bones in some animals, particularly birds, which are hollow and filled with air sacs connected to the respiratory system. These bones provide several advantages, including reduced weight for flight and improved vocalization. The word "bone" has Old English origins, stemming from the Proto-Germanic word "bainam" and its earlier form, the Proto-Indo-European root "*o̯éǵh₂os".
