Sacrum: meaning, definitions and examples

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sacrum

 

[ˈseɪ.krəm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

anatomy

The sacrum is a large, triangular bone located at the base of the spine, formed by the fusion of five vertebrae. It connects the spine to the pelvic girdle and plays a crucial role in supporting the weight of the upper body. It also serves as an attachment point for various muscles and ligaments in the pelvis.

Synonyms

sacral bone, sacral vertebrae.

Examples of usage

  • The sacrum is an important structure in human anatomy.
  • In medical imaging, the sacrum can be easily identified.
  • Injuries to the sacrum may affect mobility.
  • The sacrum helps in load-bearing during walking.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'sacrum' comes from the Latin 'sacrum os', meaning 'sacred bone', because ancient cultures believed it was important for life.
  • It is related to the word 'sacred', signifying its historical view as a vital and revered part of the human body.

Anatomy

  • The sacrum consists of five fused vertebrae, forming a single triangular bone that supports the pelvis.
  • It plays a crucial role in connecting the spine to the hip bones, helping with balance and movement.

Cultural Significance

  • In ancient Egypt, the sacrum was linked to the notion of resurrection, as it was thought to be the site of spiritual rebirth.
  • Various cultures have recognized the sacrum as an essential part of human anatomy, often associating it with strength and grounding in various practices.

Health and Medicine

  • Issues with the sacrum can lead to lower back pain, affecting posture and mobility.
  • Physical therapy often focuses on the sacral area to improve core strength and alleviate discomfort.

Comparative Anatomy

  • In many mammals, the sacrum serves a similar function, though its size and shape can vary significantly across species.
  • Some fossils, like those of dinosaurs, show that they had a sacrum that supported their massive bodies and contributed to their locomotion.

Translations

Translations of the word "sacrum" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sacro

🇮🇳 साक्रम

🇩🇪 Kreuzbein

🇮🇩 sakrum

🇺🇦 крижова кістка

🇵🇱 kość krzyżowa

🇯🇵 仙骨 (せんこつ)

🇫🇷 sacre

🇪🇸 sacro

🇹🇷 sakrum

🇰🇷 천골 (cheongol)

🇸🇦 العجز (al'ijaz)

🇨🇿 křížová kost

🇸🇰 krížová kosť

🇨🇳 骶骨 (dǐgǔ)

🇸🇮 trtična kost

🇮🇸 sacrum

🇰🇿 сакрум

🇬🇪 საკრუმი

🇦🇿 sakrum

🇲🇽 sacro

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,144, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.