What does xiphoid mean?
The xiphoid is the small, pointed cartilaginous projection at the lower end of the sternum, or breastbone. It is often called the xiphoid process, and its name comes from the Greek word for a sword because of its narrow, blade-like shape. In medical and anatomical contexts, “xiphoid” may stand alone as a noun, as in a reference to tenderness or injury of the process, or function as an adjective modifying terms such as “fracture,” “cartilage,” or “notch.” The structure is attached to the body of the sternum and can become partly or fully ossified with age. Although small, it can be sensitive when struck or pressed, which is why clinicians may examine it during assessments of upper abdominal or chest pain. Outside specialized writing, the word is uncommon, but it is a precise and memorable name for an easily overlooked piece of anatomy.
The xiphoid process, a pointed cartilaginous projection at the lower end of the sternum.
"The injury involved the xiphoid and surrounding soft tissue."
Usually discussed in medical or anatomical contexts; “xiphoid process” is the more explicit form.
Resembling a sword, or relating to the xiphoid process.
"The xiphoid cartilage was displaced on imaging."
Commonly used attributively in terms such as “xiphoid process,” “xiphoid fracture,” and “xiphoid tenderness.”
The plural is grammatically regular but uncommon; anatomical writing usually uses the full phrase “xiphoid processes.”
"Both xiphoids were examined during the physical assessment."
The xiphoid is named for a sword, a reminder that this small, sharp projection can cause surprisingly significant pain when injured.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of xiphoid
The word comes through New Latin from Greek xiphos, meaning “sword,” together with the combining form -oid, meaning “resembling” or “like.” Its anatomical use reflects the xiphoid process’s pointed, sword-like shape. The related terms xiphisternum and xiphisternal refer to structures associated with the same Greek root.
Related word forms
How xiphoid is actually used
This is primarily a specialized anatomical term. In clinical writing, “xiphoid process” is more explicit than using “xiphoid” alone, while “xiphoid” is common as an attributive modifier in phrases such as “xiphoid tenderness” and “xiphoid fracture.”
Easily confused with xiphoid
The xiphoid is the pointed lower part of the sternum, whereas the sigmoid colon is a curved section of the large intestine.