How Do You Spell PROCOELOUS?

Pronunciation: [pɹə͡ʊkˈə͡ʊləs] (IPA)

Procoelous is a word that describes the anatomical structure of certain vertebrates, referring to a concave surface of the vertebral centrum. The word is spelled as /proʊˈsiːləs/ in IPA phonetic transcription, where the first syllable is pronounced like "pro," the second syllable is pronounced like "see," and the third syllable is pronounced like "lus." This spelling helps to break down the word into its individual sounds and syllables, making it easier to understand and pronounce accurately.

PROCOELOUS Meaning and Definition

1. Procoelous is an adjective used to describe a specific anatomical feature found in certain animals, particularly in reptiles, especially dinosaurs. It refers to a particular type of vertebrae, specifically the centrum or body of the vertebra, that is concave on both its anterior (front) and posterior (back) surfaces, forming a hollow or cup-like shape.

   In procoelous vertebrae, the centrum has a saddle-shaped appearance with a concave anterior face and an equally concave posterior face. This allows the vertebrae to fit together in a way that provides stability and flexibility to the animal's backbone. Procoelous vertebrae are typically found in aquatic or semi-aquatic animals, including crocodilians and some extinct marine reptiles such as ichthyosaurs.

   The opposite of procoelous vertebrae is called opisthocoelous, where the centrum is concave at the back and convex at the front. This configuration is more common in terrestrial animals like mammals and land-dwelling reptiles.

   The term "procoelous" is derived from the Greek words "pro" meaning "forward" and "koilos" meaning "hollow" or "cup-like". Its usage in scientific literature and discussions about vertebrate anatomy helps to accurately describe and classify different types of vertebrae and better understand the adaptations and evolutionary history of animals.

2. Procelous.

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

Common Misspellings for PROCOELOUS

• procoeloues

Etymology of PROCOELOUS

The word "procoelous" is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "pro" meaning "forward" or "in front", and "koilos" meaning "hollow" or "cavity". In the context of the word "procoelous", the term refers to the shape of a vertebra where the anterior (front) end of the centrum is concave, and the posterior (back) end is convex. This specific vertebral shape is found in various animals, particularly in certain groups of reptiles and dinosaurs.