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Synonyms

rib cage

American  

noun

Anatomy.
  1. the enclosure formed by the ribs and their connecting bones.


rib cage Scientific  
  1. The bony structure in the chest formed by the ribs and sternum (breastbone) that encloses and protects the heart and lungs.


Etymology

Origin of rib cage

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

For a typical flaw like a ball flight that is repeatedly low and left, PG1 might advise players to extend their elbow farther from their rib cage as part of their downswing.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

I have pain in my back, my right foot, and my rib cage.

From Slate • Feb. 25, 2025

But Muncy said he felt a “twinge” in his rib cage while taking batting practice in Arizona during the Dodgers’ last trip and has been shut down indefinitely from most baseball activities.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2024

Taylor was hospitalized with an injury to his rib cage.

From Washington Times • Oct. 30, 2023

It was so empty and quiet that he could hear his anxious heart thump against his rib cage.

From "Healer of the Water Monster" by Brian Young

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