ossicle etymology

Etymology and Meaning of Ossicle

The word "ossicle" is derived from the Latin word "ossiculum," which means "small bone." It is a diminutive form of the word "os," meaning "bone."

Origin of Ossicles

Ossicles are small, usually irregularly shaped bones that are found in various parts of the body, including:

  • Middle ear: The middle ear contains three ossicles: the malleus, incus, and stapes. These bones are involved in transmitting sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear.
  • Larynx: The larynx, or voice box, contains several small ossicles called cartilages. These cartilages give shape to the larynx and help produce sound.
  • Joints: Ossicles are found in some joints, such as the patella (kneecap) and sesamoid bones (found in tendons). These bones protect the joint and facilitate movement.

Other Uses of the Term

In addition to its anatomical meaning, the term "ossicle" is also sometimes used to refer to:

  • Small, bone-like structures in animals, such as the ossicles of the sea urchin or the beak of a squid.
  • Objects made of bone or resembling bone, such as dice or religious relics.

ossicle relate terms

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  • ossicle

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  • ossuary

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  • ossifrage

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  • ossify

    Etymology Ossify is derived from the Latin word os meaning bone and the suffix

  • osteo

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  • osteology

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  • osteopathy

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  • ostracism

    Etymology Ancient Greek ὀστρακισμός ostrakismos Meaning The practic

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    Etymology Greek ostrakizein meaning to banish by ostracism Derived from ostrakon

  • oyster

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  • periosteum

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  • tympanum

    Etymology Middle French from Latin tympanum from Greek τύμπανον túmpanon fr

  • bone

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  • follow

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  • myth

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  • reprimand

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  • secular

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  • museum

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  • nightingale

    Etymology Old English nīhtegale meaning night singer By the 14th century the word

  • aloof

    Etymology Old English ālof meaning on high or elevated Proto Germanic alēwa