THIRD TROCHANTER Meaning and
Definition
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The term "third trochanter" refers to a bony prominence located on the posterior side of the femur, specifically in the region where the femur's shaft meets the upper, or proximal, end. More specifically, it is a small, often sharp ridge or tubercle that extends from the femur's lateral surface, near the base of the greater trochanter.
Anatomically, the trochanters are bony projections found on the upper part of the femur, or thigh bone. The greater trochanter is a large and prominent projection on the lateral side of the femur. The lesser trochanter, on the other hand, is a smaller projection located medially. Between these two trochanters, in about 5% to 30% of individuals, the third trochanter can be seen.
The presence and shape of the third trochanter vary among individuals. It can appear as a small, pointed tubercle or a larger ridge, depending on the person. The purpose of the third trochanter remains a topic of debate among anatomists and scientists. Some theories propose that it serves as an attachment point for muscles involved in hip and thigh movement, such as the gluteal muscles or the lateral rotator group. However, there is no consensus on its definitive function.
While the third trochanter is not present in all individuals, its existence can be significant in certain studies, particularly those involving anatomical variations or skeletal identification. It is an intriguing anatomical feature that contributes to the uniqueness and complexity of the human skeletal system.
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T. tertius, tuberositas glutaea.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for THIRD TROCHANTER
- rhird trochanter
- fhird trochanter
- ghird trochanter
- yhird trochanter
- 6hird trochanter
- 5hird trochanter
- tgird trochanter
- tbird trochanter
- tnird trochanter
- tjird trochanter
- tuird trochanter
- tyird trochanter
- thurd trochanter
- thjrd trochanter
- thkrd trochanter
- thord trochanter
- th9rd trochanter
- th8rd trochanter
- thied trochanter
- thidd trochanter
Etymology of THIRD TROCHANTER
The etymology of the term "third trochanter" can be explained by breaking down the word into its individual components:
1. "Third" is derived from the Old English word "þridda", which originated from the Proto-Germanic root "thridjaz". It ultimately traces back to the Proto-Indo-European root "tritós", meaning "third".
2. "Trochanter" comes from the Late Latin word "trochanter", which in turn originated from the Greek word "trokhanterion". The Greek term is derived from the verb "trokhein", meaning "to run". In anatomy, the term specifically refers to a bony prominence on the femur (thigh bone) around the hip joint.
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