Definition

Noun: 1. A specific carpal (wrist) bone: The capitate bone is the largest of the eight carpal bones in the human wrist. It is characterized by its rounded, head-like shape (from Latin caput, meaning "head") and is centrally located in the distal row of carpal bones. It articulates (forms a joint) with several surrounding bones, most notably the third metacarpal bone in the hand.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • A fracture of the capitate bone can significantly impair wrist function.
  • The capitate bone forms a key joint with the base of the middle finger's metacarpal.
  • On the X-ray, the surgeon pointed to the capitate, which was clearly visible in the center of the wrist.

Advanced Usage

• Anatomical Context: In medical and anatomical terminology, the capitate bone is often discussed in relation to its articulations, blood supply (vascularity), and susceptibility to certain injuries like fractures or avascular necrosis (death of bone tissue due to lack of blood supply).
  • The stability of the midcarpal joint depends heavily on the integrity of the capitate bone.

Variants and Related Words

• Capitate (adj.): Having a distinct, rounded head or knob-like shape. This adjective form describes the bone's morphology and is used in botany and biology for other structures.
  • The capitate inflorescence of the flower resembled the shape of the wrist bone.
• Os capitatum: The Latin anatomical term for the capitate bone.

Synonyms

• Os magnum: An older, alternative anatomical name meaning "large bone," referencing its size among the carpals. (Note: This term is largely historical and less common in modern clinical practice.)

Related Phrases and Terms

• Carpal bones: The group of eight small bones that make up the wrist, of which the capitate is one.
• Distal carpal row: The row of four carpal bones (trapezium, trapezoid, capitate, hamate) closest to the hand, where the capitate is located.
• Third metacarpal: The long bone in the hand that supports the middle finger; it articulates directly with the capitate bone.

Noun

1. the wrist bone with a rounded head shape that articulates with the 3rd metacarpus