Foramina

/fəˈræm.ɪ.nə/ noun

Definition

The Latin plural of foramen; multiple small holes or openings in bones, allowing nerves and blood vessels to pass through.

Etymology

Latin plural of foramen, preserving the original Latin pluralization. Used in anatomical and medical terminology.

Kelly Says

The plural foramina shows how medical and scientific fields kept Latin alive—doctors still speak Latin plurals even though patients have no idea what they mean, preserving a 2,000-year-old language habit.

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