umbilicus

[ uhm-bil-i-kuhs, uhm-buh-lahy-kuhs ]

noun

, plural um·bil·i·ci [uhm-, bil, -, uh, -sahy, uhm-b, uh, -, lahy, -sahy].

1. Anatomy. the depression in the center of the surface of the abdomen indicating the point of attachment of the umbilical cord to the embryo; navel.
2. Botany, Zoology. a navellike formation, as the hilum of a seed.

umbilicus

/ ʌmˈbɪlɪˌfɔːm; ʌmˈbɪlɪkəs; ˌʌmbɪˈlaɪkəs /

noun

1. biology a hollow or navel-like structure, such as the cavity at the base of a gastropod shell
2. See navel
   anatomy a technical name for the navel

Derived Forms

• umbiliform, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of umbilicus¹

1605–15; < Latin umbilīcus navel, middle, center; navel

Word History and Origins

Origin of umbilicus¹

C18: from Latin: navel, centre; compare Latin umbō shield boss, Greek omphalos navel

Example Sentences

In such cases the external umbilicus alone affords a certain indication of the position of the future embryo.

From Project Gutenberg

The summit of that organ then descends, in most cases, from above to below the umbilicus, and the abdomen becomes smaller.

From Project Gutenberg

The ear must be placed on the Abdomen, about midway between the Pubes and the umbilicus, and towards the left side.

From Project Gutenberg

In Natica (fig. 155), the typical genus, the shells are somewhat thick and smooth, with a large umbilicus.

From Project Gutenberg

At the end of it was the Umbilicus urbis Romæ, or ideal center of the city and empire, the remains of which are recognizable.

From Project Gutenberg