STERNOCLAVICULARIS Meaning and
Definition
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Sternoclavicularis is a term used in anatomy to refer to several structures related to the sternoclavicular joint, which is the joint connecting the clavicle (collarbone) to the sternum (breastbone). The anatomical term sternoclavicularis is derived from Latin roots: "sterno" meaning "to connect or attach to the sternum" and "clavicula" meaning "a small key" or "collarbone."
In its broader sense, sternoclavicularis encompasses the ligamentous structures surrounding the sternoclavicular joint. These ligaments include the anterior and posterior sternoclavicular ligaments, which provide support and stability to the joint. These ligaments connect the medial end of the clavicle to the sternum and prevent excessive motion of the joint.
Additionally, the term sternoclavicularis may also refer to the sternoclavicular muscle, also known as the sternocleidomastoid muscle. This is a large superficial muscle located in the front of the neck, and it originates from the sternum and clavicle before inserting at the mastoid process of the temporal bone.
Overall, the term sternoclavicularis encompasses the various anatomical elements related to the sternoclavicular joint, including ligaments and muscles. It is commonly used in medical literature and discussions to describe and analyze the complex structures and functions of the sternoclavicular joint and its surrounding tissues.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for STERNOCLAVICULARIS
Etymology of STERNOCLAVICULARIS
The word "sternoclavicularis" is derived from two Latin roots: "sternum" and "clavicula".
1. "Sternum" comes from the Latin word "sternon", which means "chest" or "breastbone". It refers to the long, flat bone in the center of the chest that connects to the ribs.
2. "Clavicula" is the Latin term for "collarbone", which is the long, slender bone that connects the sternum with the shoulder blade or scapula.
Adding the suffix "-aris" to "sternoclavicularis" indicates "pertaining to" or "associated with", making the term "sternoclavicularis" mean "related to the sternum and the clavicle".
