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Scapula Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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scapula

[ˈskæpjʊlə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

anatomy

The scapula, commonly referred to as the shoulder blade, is a flat, triangular bone located on the posterior side of the thoracic region. It serves as a key structural component allowing for the attachment of muscles and facilitating movement of the arm. The scapula connects the humerus (upper arm bone) with the clavicle (collarbone).

Synonyms

shoulder blade.

Examples of usage

  • The scapula articulates with the humerus.
  • Injuries to the scapula can affect shoulder mobility.
  • The scapula plays a vital role in upper limb movements.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Anatomy

  • The scapula is also known as the shoulder blade and there are two of them in each human body, one on each side.
  • It plays a crucial role in allowing a wide range of arm movements by acting as a point of attachment for muscles.
  • The scapula connects the humerus (upper arm bone) to the clavicle (collarbone), forming part of the shoulder girdle.

Health and Fitness

  • Strengthening the muscles around the scapula can improve posture and decrease the risk of shoulder injuries.
  • Scapular mobility is important for athletes, especially in sports that require overhead movements, like swimming or baseball.

Cultural References

  • In popular fitness culture, scapula retraction exercises are often emphasized to improve back strength.
  • The scapula is frequently referenced in physical therapy as it is crucial to shoulder health and rehabilitation.

Comparative Anatomy

  • Other vertebrates, such as birds, have a similar bone structure allowing for wing movement, illustrating an evolutionary adaptation for flight.
  • In some animals like dogs, the scapula is thinner which allows for greater flexibility and range of motion of their forelimbs.

Origin of 'scapula'

Main points about word origin

  • The word derives from the Latin term 'scapulae', meaning 'shoulders'.
  • In ancient Greek, the word for scapula was 'omphalos', which referred to the shoulder blade area.

The term 'scapula' comes from the Latin word 'scapulae,' meaning 'shoulder' or 'shoulder blades.' This Latin term is a derivative of the earlier form 'scapha,' derived from the Greek 'skaphe,' meaning 'a boat' or 'hollow object,' which reflects the bone's curved shape resembling a boat. The use of the term in anatomy dates back to classical antiquity, where early anatomists and physicians described the shoulder region in their works. Over centuries, the scapula has been a significant area of study in understanding human anatomy, especially concerning shoulder mechanics and the muscle attachments that influence arm movement.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,180, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.