breastbone

[ brest-bohn ]

noun

1. the sternum.

breastbone

/ ˈbrɛstˌbəʊn /

noun

1. the nontechnical name for sternum

breastbone

/ brĕst′bōn′ /

1. See sternum

Word History and Origins

Origin of breastbone¹

before 1000; Middle English brust-bon, Old English brēostbān. See breast, bone ( def )

Example Sentences

Cut off the feet of a chicken, break the breastbone flat, but be careful not to break the skin.

From Project Gutenberg

He hit Ling on the lower end of the breastbone, where his belly would be softest.

From Project Gutenberg

Margaret gave a cry; the light was shining on bones—a white breastbone with the ribs attached, and larger bones near.

From Project Gutenberg

The rib cage includes the breastbone and twelve pairs of ribs.

From Project Gutenberg

Each of the guests was given a little breastbone and no more, but this to them was a very great piece of meat.

From Project Gutenberg