sternum

noun ster·num \ˈstər-nəm\

plural sternums or ster·na \-nə\

Definition of STERNUM

: a compound ventral bone or cartilage of most vertebrates other than fishes that connects the ribs or the shoulder girdle or both and in humans consists of the manubrium, gladiolus, and xiphoid process —called also breastbone

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Origin of STERNUM

New Latin, from Greek sternon chest, breastbone; akin to Old High German stirna forehead, Latin sternere to spread out — more at strew

First Known Use: 1667

STERNUM Defined for Kids

sternum

noun ster·num \ˈstər-nəm\

plural ster·nums or ster·na \-nə\

Definition of STERNUM for Kids

: breastbone

Medical Dictionary

sternum

noun ster·num \ˈstər-nəm\

plural ster·nums or ster·na \-nə\

Medical Definition of STERNUM

: a compound ventral bone or cartilage that lies in the median central part of the body of most vertebrates above fishes and that in humans is about seven inches (18 centimeters) long, consists in the adult of three parts, and connects with the clavicles and the cartilages of the upper seven pairs of ribs—called also breastbone