scapula

(noun)

either of the two large, flat, bones forming the back of the shoulder

Related Terms

Examples of scapula in the following topics:

  • Human Appendicular Skeleton

    • The scapulae are flat, triangular bones that are located at the back of the pectoral girdle.
    • The spine runs across the back of the scapula; it is a good example of a bony protrusion that facilitates a broad area of attachment for muscles to bone.
    • It articulates (joins) with the scapula at the shoulder and with the forearm at the elbow.
    • (a) The pectoral girdle in primates consists of the clavicles and scapulae.
    • (b) The posterior view reveals the spine of the scapula to which muscle attaches.

  • Movement at Synovial Joints

    • Elevation is the movement of a bone upward, such as shrugging the shoulders, lifting the scapulae.
    • Depression is the opposite of elevation and involves moving the bone downward, such as after the shoulders are shrugged and the scapulae return to their normal position from an elevated position.

  • Structure and Function of the Muscular System

    • Skeletal muscle mainly attaches to the skeletal system via tendons to maintain posture and control movement for example contraction of the biceps muscle, attached to the scapula and radius, will raise the forearm.