Coccyx Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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coccyx
[ˈkɒksɪks ]
Definition
anatomy
The coccyx, commonly referred to as the tailbone, is a small, triangular bone at the base of the vertebral column in humans. It consists of three to five vertebrae fused together and is located just below the sacrum. Despite being a remnant of a tail from our evolutionary ancestors, the coccyx serves important functions, including supporting the weight of the body when sitting and providing attachment for ligaments and muscles. The coccyx can be subject to pain, known as coccydynia, often resulting from trauma or prolonged sitting.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I felt pain in my coccyx after the fall.
- The doctor explained the anatomy of the coccyx during the examination.
- She had to sit carefully due to a coccyx injury.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Anatomy
- The coccyx is made up of three to five fused vertebrae and serves as an anchor point for various muscles and ligaments.
- It plays an important role in supporting weight when you sit down, helping maintain balance and stability.
- Different cultures around the world have noted the coccyx's function, with some traditional practices related to posture and body awareness.
Health and Medicine
- Coccydynia is a medical term for pain in the coccyx area, which can occur from prolonged sitting or injury.
- Posture and seating arrangements are considered crucial in preventing discomfort associated with the tailbone.
- Specific cushions or supports are often recommended for those experiencing discomfort when sitting, showcasing the coccyx's impact on daily life.
Cultural Perspectives
- In some cultures, the coccyx is tied to discussions about posture and how it affects one's overall health and well-being.
- In yoga and meditation practices, awareness of the coccyx can play a role in grounding and establishing connection to the earth.
- Some traditional therapies emphasize the coccyx for balancing energy flow in the body, especially in relation to the base chakra.
Evolutionary Biology
- The coccyx is considered a vestigial structure, a remnant of a tail that was more prominent in our distant ancestors.
- Studying the coccyx can provide insights into human evolution, particularly how locomotion and posture have changed over time.
- Comparative anatomy shows that while many animals have functional tails, primates have evolved to have a reduced tail structure, represented by the coccyx.
Origin of 'coccyx'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'coccyx' comes from the Greek word 'kokkyx,' which means 'cuckoo,' because the shape of the bone resembles a cuckoo bird's beak.
- In Latin, the term also adopted the name 'coccyx,' highlighting its anatomical significance in both Greek and Roman medicine.
- The shape of the coccyx has led to various interpretations, with some early anatomists believing it resembled a small tail.
The word 'coccyx' derives from the Greek word 'kokkyx', which means 'cuckoo', due to the bone's resemblance to a cuckoo's beak. The term was introduced into modern anatomical terminology in the late 19th century as scientists sought to describe human anatomy with more precision. The coccyx is the remnant of a tail that human ancestors possessed, making it a vestigial structure in contemporary anatomy. Its significance has evolved as understanding of human physiology has advanced, highlighting its role in support and attachment rather than mobility. The study of the coccyx has contributed to insights into human evolution and anatomical development.