sternum
Sternum (noun) means the flat bone in the center of the chest that the ribs connect to; the breastbone. Example: “He bruised his sternum in the car accident.”
How to use sternum
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe breastbone, the flat bone running down the middle of your chest.
Word forms
sterna plural, sternums plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He bruised his _____ in the car accident.
Etymology
Borrowed from New Latin sternum, related to an Old English word for "forehead."
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “sternum” mean?
The word “sternum” means the flat bone in the center of the chest that the ribs connect to; the breastbone. In plain terms, the breastbone, the flat bone running down the middle of your chest.
How do you pronounce “sternum”?
“Sternum” is pronounced STUR-nuhm (/ˈstɝ.nəm/ in IPA).
How do you use “sternum” in a sentence?
Here is “sternum” used in a sentence: “He bruised his sternum in the car accident.”
What part of speech is “sternum”?
“Sternum” is a noun.
Where does the word “sternum” come from?
The word “sternum” comes from New Latin. Borrowed from New Latin sternum, related to an Old English word for "forehead.".