The correct spelling of the anatomical term "scapulas" lately spelled as "scapulae," is a bit tricky when it comes to pronunciation. Using IPA phonetic transcription, we can see that it should be pronounced as /skæpjʊləs/. The first syllable should be pronounced as "sk," followed by "a" as in "cat" and "pj" as in "pudding." The second syllable is "u" as in "put" and "l" as in "law." Finally, the last syllable is "əs" as in "gas." Remembering the correct spelling and pronunciation of the word can be essential for medical professionals and students.
Scapulas, also known as scapulae (plural form), refer to the large, flat, triangular bones found in the back of the shoulder. They are commonly known as shoulder blades. The scapulas are paired bones that connect the upper arm bones (humerus) to the collarbones (clavicle). Positioned on the upper back, they play a crucial role in facilitating various movements of the arms and shoulders.
The scapulas are located on each side of the vertebral column, following the upper seven ribs. When viewed from the back, they appear as wing-like structures. Each scapula features several notable anatomical landmarks. These include the spine, which is a prominent ridge dividing the bone into two portions, the acromion process, forming the highest point of the shoulder, and the glenoid cavity, which serves as the socket for connecting to the humerus.
The scapulas serve as attachment points for several muscles that enable arm movement, including the deltoids, trapezius, levator scapulae, and rhomboids. They work in tandem with other structures of the shoulder complex, such as the clavicle and humerus, to provide stability and flexibility during arm movements, including rotation, abduction, adduction, and elevation.
In summary, scapulas are important skeletal structures situated in the back of the shoulder. They provide attachments for various muscles and combine with other components of the shoulder joint to facilitate arm and shoulder movements.
The word scapulas is the plural form of scapula, which is derived from the Latin word scapulae. The Latin term scapula originally referred to the shoulder blade bone in humans and animals. It comes from the Proto-Indo-European root *skap- meaning bone, edge, or rim. This root has also given rise to words such as scabbard and scapular.