Pronunciation: [sˈe͡ɪkɹəm] (IPA) 
The word "sacrum" is spelled with a 'c' rather than a 'k' because it comes from Latin. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced /ˈseɪkrəm/. The 's' is pronounced as the English 's', the 'a' is pronounced as the vowel in "say," the 'c' is pronounced as the English 'k', the 'r' is pronounced as a rolling 'r', and the 'u' is pronounced as the vowel in "hut". Finally, the 'm' is pronounced as the English 'm'.
The sacrum is a bony structure located at the base of the spine, specifically in the pelvic region. It forms the posterior aspect of the pelvic girdle and is triangular in shape. Composed of five fused vertebrae (S1-S5), the sacrum acts as a strong foundation, connecting the spine to the hips and providing stability and support to the upper body.
The sacrum serves several important functions. Firstly, it forms the joint with the ilium bones of the pelvis, known as the sacroiliac joint. This joint is responsible for transmitting the weight of the upper body to the lower limbs, thus facilitating movement and providing stability during activities such as walking or running. Additionally, the sacrum protects vital organs of the pelvic cavity, including the reproductive and urinary systems.
Furthermore, the sacrum plays a crucial role in connecting the vertebral column with the pelvis. It acts as a transition area between these two regions, providing support and enabling movements such as bending forward or backward.
Due to its anatomical location and functions, the sacrum is essential for proper body mechanics and optimal functionality. Any abnormalities or injuries affecting the sacrum can lead to pain, impaired mobility, or other related issues.
Os sacrum, sacred bone, so called because it was believed to escape disintegration and to serve as the basis for the resurrected body; a broad, slightly curved, spade-shaped bone, thick above, thinner below, closing in the pelvic girdle posteriorly; it is formed by the welding together of five originally separate sacral vertebrae.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The word sacrum has its etymology rooted in Latin. It comes from the neuter form of the Latin adjective sacer which means sacred or holy. In Latin, sacer was used to refer to anything that was considered consecrated or set apart for religious purposes. Over time, this adjective was applied to the triangular bone at the base of the spine, as it was deemed sacred due to its connection to life and fertility. Thus, the word sacrum came to represent the bone itself, with its original connotation of being sacred or holy.
