scapula

noun scap·u·la \ˈska-pyə-lə\

plural scap·u·lae\-ˌlē, -ˌlī\ or scap·u·las

Definition of SCAPULA

: either of a pair of large triangular bones lying one in each dorsal lateral part of the thorax, being the principal bone of the corresponding half of the shoulder girdle, and articulating with the corresponding clavicle or coracoid —called also shoulder blade

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Origin of SCAPULA

New Latin, from Latin, shoulder blade, shoulder

First Known Use: 1578

Medical Dictionary

scapula

noun scap·u·la \ˈskap-yə-lə\

plural scap·u·lae \-ˌlē, -ˌlī\ or scap·u·las

Medical Definition of SCAPULA

: either of a pair of large essentially flat and triangular bones lying one in each dorsolateral part of the thorax, being the principal bone of the corresponding half of the pectoral girdle, divided on the posterior surface into the supraspinous and infraspinous fossae by an oblique transverse bony process or spine terminating in the acromion, having a hook-shaped bony coracoid process on the anterior surface of the superior border of the bone, providing articulation for the humerus, and articulating with the corresponding clavicle—called also shoulder blade