Furcula Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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furcula
[ˈfɜːrkjʊlə ]
Definition
anatomy, zoology
A furcula, commonly known as the wishbone, is a forked bone found in birds and some dinosaurs. It is formed by the fusion of the two clavicles and plays a crucial role in flight by providing structural support and aiding in the mechanics of wing movement. The term can also refer to similar structures in other species, where it serves a comparable function.
Synonyms
clavicle, forked bone, wishbone.
Examples of usage
- The furcula enables birds to absorb the stresses of flight.
- Dinosaur fossils often reveal well-preserved furcula, aiding in classification.
- The wishbone tradition is rooted in the anatomy of birds, specifically the furcula.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- The furcula acts as a spring, storing energy when a bird flaps its wings, enabling more powerful flight.
- Birds with a well-developed furcula tend to be stronger fliers, showcasing its importance in evolution and adaptation.
Cultural Significance
- In various cultures, the wishbone (related to the furcula) is part of a tradition where two people pull on it, and the one with the larger piece gets good luck.
- The furcula can be found in both modern birds and some dinosaur fossils, showing the historical development of flight.
Literature
- The furcula has been referenced in scientific literature for over a century, emphasizing its role in avian biomechanics.
- Many naturalists and ornithologists have used the furcula as a key example in studies about bird evolution and flight capabilities.
Pop Culture
- Cartoons often exaggerate birds with oversized wings and furculas for comedic effect, highlighting their unique anatomy.
- The idea of a wishbone has appeared in numerous movies and television shows, especially during holiday celebrations.
Origin of 'furcula'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Latin word 'furca', meaning 'fork', which describes its two-pronged shape.
- In anatomy, the term has been used since the 17th century to describe similar bone structures in various species.
The term 'furcula' comes from the Latin word 'furca,' which means 'fork' or 'pitchfork.' The use of 'furca' in a biological context dates back to the early 19th century when anatomists began to describe structures in birds and reptiles that resembled a fork in shape. This bone's significance in supporting avian flight mechanics led to its detailed study by ornithologists and paleontologists. The word has since become established in modern anatomy and zoology to describe not only the bird's wishbone but also analogous structures in other vertebrates, illustrating the evolutionary adaptations that support flight.