Fibula Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fibula

[ˈfɪbjʊlə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

anatomy bone

The fibula is a long, thin bone located in the lower leg, parallel to the tibia. It serves as a support for the muscles of the lower leg and plays a key role in stabilizing the ankle joint. Although it is not a weight-bearing bone, it provides an attachment point for ligaments and tendons, which are essential for movement and stability. The fibula can also be referred to as the calf bone.

Synonyms

calf bone, peroneal.

Examples of usage

  • The fibula is crucial for ankle stability.
  • Injuries to the fibula can affect mobility.
  • The doctor explained the role of the fibula in leg function.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Anatomy

  • It is smaller and located on the outside of the leg, playing a crucial role in stabilizing the ankle joint.
  • Despite its size, it provides attachment points for muscles and ligaments, highlighting its importance in movement.
  • The fibula does not bear weight like the tibia, but it aids in balance and walking.

Archaeology

  • Ancient artifacts showed that the fibula was often represented in jewelry, reflecting its cultural relevance.
  • Fibula-shaped brooches were commonly found in burial sites, emphasizing their dual function as both ornamentation and a symbol of status.
  • Excavations often reveal that these decorative items were intricately designed, showcasing craftsmanship of past societies.

Medicine

  • Fibula fractures, though less common than tibia fractures, can occur and typically require careful management.
  • Modern medical practices often use the fibula for bone grafts due to its ability to regenerate effectively.
  • Understanding fibula injuries is crucial for athletes, as even small injuries can impact overall leg function.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, the fibula is associated with strength and support, not just in physical terms, but in symbolic meanings.
  • Fashion in ancient societies often incorporated fibula-like clasps, showing how this bone influenced aesthetic design.
  • Epics often reference limbs, connecting physical strength (especially in battle) to the bones like the fibula here.

Origin of 'fibula'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'fibula' comes from the Latin word for 'brooch' or 'clasp,' indicating how it connects to other bones like a clasp connects fabrics.
  • In ancient times, people used the word to refer to decorative accessories, reflecting its role in connecting parts.
  • The term has been used since the Renaissance to describe the bone, showcasing its long-standing significance in anatomy.

The term 'fibula' comes from Latin, meaning 'a clasp' or 'a brooch'. In ancient Rome, the fibula referred to a safety pin or a clasp used to fasten garments. The usage of the word evolved in the medical field to describe the bone in the lower leg due to its slender and elongated shape that resembles a clasp. The fibula is often considered one of the two long bones in vertebrates' limbs, and while it is smaller than the tibia, its structural significance has been recognized for centuries. Its anatomical significance has been well documented from ancient texts to modern medical literature, highlighting its role in both movement and support in the human body.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,853, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.