xiphisternum

[zif-uh-stur-nuhm]

noun

Anatomy.

plural

xiphisterna 

1. the lowermost of the three segments of the sternum.

xiphisternum

/ ˌzɪfɪˈstɜːnəm /

noun

1. Also called: xiphoid.  xiphoid process. anatomy zoology the cartilaginous process forming the lowermost part of the breastbone (sternum)

Other Word Forms

• xiphisternal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of xiphisternum¹

1855–60; < New Latin xiphi- (combining form of Greek xíphos sword) + sternum sternum

Example Sentences

The calcified xiphisternum is roughly bell-shaped having short lateral processes anteriorly and a deep notch posteriorly.

From Project Gutenberg

Cut away xiphisternum, and then cut through clavicles and coracoids on either side, and remove ventral part of shoulder girdle, to expose the heart.

From Project Gutenberg

Only P. spinipollex has lateral processes anteriorly on the xiphisternum; in the other species the xiphisternum is deeply bell-shaped.

From Project Gutenberg

The xiphisternum will probably be cut in this operation.

From Project Gutenberg