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Scapulae: meaning, definitions and examples

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scapulae

 

[ ˈskæp.jʊ.lə ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

anatomy, bones

Scapulae, commonly known as shoulder blades, are large, flat bones that form the back part of the shoulder girdle. Each person has two scapulae, one on each side of the body. They connect the upper arm bone (humerus) with the collarbone (clavicle). The scapula plays a crucial role in arm movement and stability, serving as an attachment point for several muscles involved in shoulder motion. Injuries or conditions affecting the scapula can lead to impairment in shoulder function.

Synonyms

scapula, shoulder blades

Examples of usage

  • The scapulae provide important support for shoulder movements.
  • Fractures of the scapulae are rare but can occur in accidents.
  • Physical therapy may focus on strengthening the muscles around the scapulae.
  • The position of the scapulae affects overall posture.

Translations

Translations of the word "scapulae" in other languages:

🇵🇹 escápulas

🇮🇳 स्कैपुला

🇩🇪 Schulterblätter

🇮🇩 skapula

🇺🇦 лопатки

🇵🇱 łopatki

🇯🇵 肩甲骨

🇫🇷 scapulae

🇪🇸 escápulas

🇹🇷 skapula

🇰🇷 견갑골

🇸🇦 الكَتِف

🇨🇿 lopatky

🇸🇰 lopatky

🇨🇳 肩胛骨

🇸🇮 lopatke

🇮🇸 skapu

🇰🇿 омыртқа

🇬🇪 ნეკნის ძვალი

🇦🇿 qol sümükləri

🇲🇽 escápulas

Word origin

The term 'scapula' is derived from the Latin word 'scapula,' which means 'shoulder blade.' This Latin term is related to the Greek word 'skaphe,' meaning 'shovel' or 'spatula,' suggesting a flat, blade-like shape that resembles these objects. The bone's shape and function are significant in both anatomy and art, often represented in classical sculpture to illustrate human body structure. Over time, knowledge about the scapula has evolved, especially with advances in medical understanding and imaging technologies, making it a crucial bone studied in sports medicine, orthopedics, and physical therapy. The plural form 'scapulae' is frequently used in anatomical and medical contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,687 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.