Clavipectoral

/ˌklæviˈpɛktərəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to both the clavicle (collarbone) and the pectoral region of the chest.

Etymology

From Latin clavis (key, also used for collarbone) + pectoral (from pectoralis, relating to the chest). A modern anatomical term combining two body regions to describe muscles, nerves, or structures affecting both areas.

Kelly Says

The clavicle gets its name because Romans thought it looked like a key—'clavis' means key in Latin—and they named it that over 2,000 years ago. Anatomists still use that key metaphor when describing the shoulder!

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