Coccyx: meaning, definitions and examples
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coccyx
[ ˈkɒksɪks ]
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
Translations of the word "coccyx" in other languages:
🇵🇹 cóccix
🇮🇳 कोक्सिस
🇩🇪 Steißbein
🇮🇩 kokiks
🇺🇦 куприкова кістка
🇵🇱 kość ogonowa
🇯🇵 尾骨
🇫🇷 coccyx
🇪🇸 cóccix
🇹🇷 koksiks
🇰🇷 미골
🇸🇦 عظمة الذيل
🇨🇿 kostrč
🇸🇰 kostrč
🇨🇳 尾骨
🇸🇮 trtica
🇮🇸 halaberi
🇰🇿 құйрық сүйек
🇬🇪 კოკციქსი
🇦🇿 koksiks
🇲🇽 cóccix
Etymology
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.