What does scapula mean?
The scapula is the formal anatomical name for the shoulder blade, a large, flat, triangular bone forming the posterior part of the shoulder. It joins the upper-arm bone, the humerus, at the glenoid cavity and meets the clavicle at the acromion. Together, these connections form the shoulder joint and allow the arm a wide range of movement. The scapula also provides attachment points for muscles that move and stabilize the shoulder and upper arm. In medicine, sports science, and anatomy, the word is used more often than the everyday expression shoulder blade; outside specialist contexts, it may sound technical. Its Latin plural, scapulae, remains common in anatomical writing, although scapulas is also standard in general English. The word is useful for anyone studying the skeleton, interpreting medical reports, or understanding how the shoulder’s structure supports powerful and varied movement.
nounThe scapula, commonly called the shoulder blade, is the large, flat, triangular bone that forms the back of the shoulder and connects with the humerus and clavicle.
- The flat triangular bone forming the back of the shoulder, also called the shoulder blade.
"The X-ray revealed a hairline fracture of her left scapula."
"An MRI showed inflammation around the right scapula."
"The scapula provides a broad attachment surface for several muscles of the shoulder and upper arm."
Scapulae is the conventional Latin plural used especially in anatomy and medicine, though scapulas is also standard in general English.
"Both scapulae were examined during the medical assessment."
Your shoulder blade is also the body's largest flat bone, forming a broad triangular anchor for the arm.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
Related word forms
How scapula is actually used
Scapula is primarily a formal anatomical and medical term. In general usage, shoulder blade is more common, while scapula conveys a more technical or clinical register. The term is standard in British and American English.
Easily confused with scapula
Scapula is the anatomical name for the shoulder-blade bone, whereas scapular means relating to the scapula and may also name a type of garment.