sternum: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical/Medical
Quick answer
What does “sternum” mean?
The flat bone in the centre of the chest that connects the ribs.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The flat bone in the centre of the chest that connects the ribs.
In anatomy, the breastbone; a long, flat bone located in the central part of the chest, connecting to the ribs via cartilage and forming the front of the rib cage, which protects the heart and lungs.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. Both use 'sternum' as the standard term.
Connotations
Identical technical connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in general discourse, but standard in medical contexts in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “sternum” in a Sentence
The sternum [verb: protects, connects, is located]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “sternum” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- sternal
American English
- sternal
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in medical, biological, and anatomical textbooks and research papers.
Everyday
Rarely used; might appear in discussions of sports injuries or hospital visits.
Technical
Standard term in medical diagnostics, surgery, physiotherapy, and forensic science.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “sternum”
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “sternum”
- Mispronouncing as /ˈstɜːr.nʊm/ or /steˈnʊm/.
- Confusing it with 'stern' (severe) due to similar spelling.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, 'breastbone' is the common, non-technical synonym for 'sternum'.
Yes, a sternal fracture is possible, typically from significant blunt force trauma like a car accident or a hard impact in contact sports.
In CPR, compressions are applied to the lower half of the sternum to manually pump blood from the heart. Correct hand placement is crucial to avoid causing injury to the sternum or underlying organs.
No. The sternum is present in most tetrapods (four-limbed vertebrates) like mammals, birds, and reptiles, but its structure and presence vary. For example, most fish and snakes do not have a sternum.
The flat bone in the centre of the chest that connects the ribs.
Sternum is usually technical/medical in register.
Sternum: in British English it is pronounced /ˈstɜː.nəm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈstɝː.nəm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'STERNum' – it's the STERN (firm, central) part of your chest framework.
Conceptual Metaphor
The body's shield or central plate.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of the sternum?