sternocleidomastoid etymology

Etymology:

  • Latin:
    • sterno-: from sternum (breastbone)
    • cleido-: from clavis (collarbone)
    • mastoid-: from mastos (nipple or breast)

Meaning:

  • Pertaining to the breastbone, collarbone, and mastoid process (bony projection behind the ear)

Origin:

The sternocleidomastoid muscle was first described and named by the ancient Greek physician Galen in the 2nd century AD. The name reflects the muscle's anatomical attachments and its role in neck movement.

Function:

The sternocleidomastoid muscle is a paired muscle located on either side of the neck. Its primary function is to:

  • Flex the neck (bring the head forward)
  • Rotate the head to the opposite side
  • Assist in deep inspiration by elevating the chest

sternocleidomastoid relate terms

  • clavicle

    Etymology Latin clavicula diminutive of clavis meaning key Greek kleidion meaning

  • mastoid

    Etymology Derived from Greek mastos breast oid resembling Meaning Resem

  • masto

    Etymology The word masto is derived from the Ancient Greek word μαστός masto

  • sternum

    Etymology Latin sternum Ancient Greek στέρνον stérnon meaning chest or

  • neck

    Etymology The word neck originates from the Old English word hnocca which referred t

  • muscle

    Etymology Latin musculus diminutive of mus mouse French muscle Meaning A cont

  • admonish

    Etymology From Old French admonester from Medieval Latin admonestāre from Latin admo

  • prayer

    Etymology The word prayer comes from the Middle English word preiere which in turn d

  • thalamus

    Etymology The term thalamus comes from the Ancient Greek word θάλαμος thalamos

  • tolerance

    Etymology Latin tolerantia endurance patience Stems from the verb tolerare to be

  • defenestration

    Etymology Latin defenestratio from de meaning down or out of and fenestra mea

  • diligent

    Etymology Latin diligens present participle of diligere to love to appreciate to f