Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Humerus Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

💪
Add to dictionary

humerus

[ˈhjuːmərəs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

anatomy, biology

The humerus is the long bone in the upper arm or forelimb that runs from the shoulder to the elbow. It plays a crucial role in the movement of the arm and supports the muscles and tendons that allow for various actions such as lifting and throwing.

Synonyms

upper arm bone.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor examined the humerus for any fractures.
  • The humerus connects to the scapula at the shoulder joint.
  • Exercise can strengthen the muscles surrounding the humerus.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Anatomy

  • The humerus is the longest bone in the arm and plays a critical role in shoulder movement and arm mobility.
  • It features important landmarks, such as the greater and lesser tubercles, which serve as attachment points for muscles.
  • Injuries to the humerus can significantly affect a person's ability to perform everyday tasks like lifting or reaching.

Cultural References

  • In art, the human form is often celebrated, and the humerus is a key component in the depiction of arms.
  • Movies and shows sometimes reference 'humerus' when discussing anatomy humorously, blending education with entertainment.
  • Fashion choices, like sleeveless tops, emphasize the beauty and function of the arm, including the humerus.

Science

  • The humerus plays a vital role in various activities involving the arm, from throwing a ball to lifting objects.
  • It works in concert with muscles, such as the biceps and triceps, to allow for complex movements.
  • Understanding the structure and function of the humerus is essential in fields like physical therapy and orthopedics.

Sports

  • Athletes rely heavily on their humerus during sports activities that involve throwing, like baseball and basketball.
  • Injuries to the humerus are common in contact sports, where falls can lead to fractures.
  • Strength training often incorporates exercises designed to enhance the muscles surrounding the humerus for better performance.

Origin of 'humerus'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'humerus' comes from the Latin word 'humerus', meaning 'shoulder' or 'upper arm'.
  • In the humor-related sense, 'humerus' sounds like 'humorous', a play on words that connects to funny arm movements.
  • The pronunciation of 'humerus' can lead to amusing misunderstandings, as people might confuse it with 'humorous'.

The term 'humerus' comes from the Latin 'humerus', meaning 'shoulder' or 'upper arm'. This itself can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root 'ǵʰem-', which means 'to take' or 'to grasp'. The naming reflects the anatomical position of the bone, being pivotal for numerous arm movements. In classical literature, the study of human anatomy and the understanding of the body's structure were largely influenced by Greek and Roman scholars, who contributed to the terminology still used today. Over the centuries, as anatomy evolved as a science, the humerus has been studied in relation to other bones, particularly in the context of its fractures and potential for rehabilitation after injuries.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,937, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.