AXIAL SKELETON Meaning and
Definition
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The axial skeleton is a fundamental anatomical structure of the human body and many other vertebrates. It refers to the central, upright, and relatively immobile part of the skeletal system that provides the framework and support for the body. Comprising the head, neck, and trunk, the axial skeleton consists of multiple interconnected bones that are primarily responsible for protecting the vital organs, providing attachment sites for muscles, and facilitating body movement and stability.
The axial skeleton is composed of three major regions: the skull, the vertebral column, and the thoracic cage. The skull includes 22 bones that form the cranium, face, and auditory ossicles. Together, these bones protect the brain and sensory organs, as well as provide attachment sites for muscles involved in chewing, talking, and facial expressions.
The vertebral column, commonly known as the spine or spinal column, is made up of 33 individual bones called vertebrae. It serves as the central axis of the body, providing overall support and protection for the spinal cord. The vertebral column also allows for a certain degree of flexibility and movement, enabling various postures and motions.
Lastly, the thoracic cage consists of the rib cage, sternum, and associated cartilages. This region encloses and protects important organs such as the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels. It also plays a crucial role in respiration by facilitating the expansion and contraction of the chest cavity during breathing.
Overall, the axial skeleton represents the core structure that anchors and stabilizes the human body, ensuring proper functioning and integrity of the vital organs, while also enabling specific movements and bodily functions.
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The skeleton of the head and trunk.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for AXIAL SKELETON
- zxial skeleton
- sxial skeleton
- wxial skeleton
- qxial skeleton
- azial skeleton
- acial skeleton
- adial skeleton
- asial skeleton
- axual skeleton
- axjal skeleton
- axkal skeleton
- axoal skeleton
- ax9al skeleton
- ax8al skeleton
- axizl skeleton
- axisl skeleton
- axiwl skeleton
- axiql skeleton
- axiak skeleton
Etymology of AXIAL SKELETON
The word "axial" is derived from the Latin word "axis", meaning "axle" or "pivot". It refers to the central line or axis of something. "Skeleton", on the other hand, comes from the Greek word "skeleton", meaning "dried up" or "mummified body". Thus, the term "axial skeleton" refers to the central, main, or core bones of the skeleton that form the body's central axis, including the skull, vertebral column, and ribcage.
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