What does sternum mean?
The sternum is the anatomical name for the breastbone, a flat bone in the center of the chest. It joins the two collarbones, articulates with the upper ribs, and forms the front of the rib cage. By protecting the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels, it helps shield vital organs from impact. In everyday conversation, people usually say “breastbone,” while “sternum” is especially common in medical and anatomical settings. The term also appears in compound medical words such as “sternal,” “sternoclavicular,” and “sternocleidomastoid.” Its Greek origin gives the word a distinctive history: it derives from the Greek sternon, meaning “breast” or “chest.”
nounThe sternum, or breastbone, is the flat bone at the center of the chest that connects the collarbones and the upper ribs. It protects part of the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels.
- The flat bone forming the front of the chest between the ribs.
"The scan showed a minor fracture of the sternum."
"A blow to the chest can cause a sternum fracture."
"The sternum is anatomically divided into the manubrium, body, and xiphoid process."
Usually used when referring to the sternums of multiple people or animals, especially in anatomical or medical discussion.
"The study examined fractures of the sternums of injured athletes."
The word sternum comes from the Greek word for “breast” or “chest,” which is fitting for the body’s central breastbone.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sternum come from?
The word sternum entered English through Medieval Latin sternum, borrowed from the Greek sternon, meaning “breast” or “chest.” The Greek root was also adopted into English through anatomical terms such as sternal and sternoclavicular. Its use in English is especially associated with formal medical and anatomical description.
Related word forms
How sternum is actually used
In medical contexts, “breastbone” is the everyday equivalent of “sternum.” In anatomy, “sternal” is the adjective relating to the sternum, as in “sternal fracture.”