STERNEBRAE Meaning and
Definition
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Sternebrae refers to the bony structures found in the chest region of vertebrates, specifically in mammals and birds. Also known as sternal ribs, it is derived from the Latin word "sternum" which means breastbone. The sternum itself is a flat, elongated bone located in the central part of the body's ventral surface.
Sternebrae are typically a series of small, cartilaginous or ossified bones that connect the sternum to the vertebral column. In mammals, there are usually seven sternebrae, while birds may have more. These bones articulate with the ribs, thus aiding in the attachment and support of the ribcage.
The sternum is a crucial component of the skeletal system, providing protection for the vital organs such as the heart and lungs. Sternebrae play a vital role in providing structural stability to the thoracic cavity and contribute to the flexibility required for breathing movements.
The size and shape of sternebrae can vary across different species. They may also present anatomical differences in relation to the animal's locomotion or lifestyle. For instance, some mammals with specialized modes of locomotion like bats or marine mammals may exhibit modifications in their sternum and sternebrae to accommodate specific adaptations.
Overall, sternebrae are an essential element in the skeletal framework of mammals and birds, playing a fundamental role in supporting and protecting the thoracic organs while ensuring locomotor efficiency and flexibility.
Common Misspellings for STERNEBRAE
- aternebrae
- zternebrae
- xternebrae
- dternebrae
- eternebrae
- wternebrae
- srernebrae
- sfernebrae
- sgernebrae
- syernebrae
- s6ernebrae
- s5ernebrae
- stwrnebrae
- stsrnebrae
- stdrnebrae
- strrnebrae
- st4rnebrae
- st3rnebrae
- steenebrae
- stednebrae
Etymology of STERNEBRAE
The term "Sternebrae" is derived from the combination of two words: "Sternum" and "Brae".
1. "Sternum" - This word originated from the Greek word "sternon", meaning "chest" or "breastbone". It refers to the long, flat bone located in the center of the front side of the chest in humans and many vertebrates.
2. "Brae" - This term is a plural form of "brā", which comes from the Old English word "brǣ", meaning "eyebrow" or "ridge". In this context, it refers to the ridges or segments present on the sternum.
Therefore, when combined, "Sternebrae" describes the individual ridges or segments found on the sternum.
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