pelves

A doctor points to the pelves on a medical diagram.

Definition

1. Noun (plural form of ):
   • Anatomical structure: "Pelves" refers to the plural of pelvis, the large bony structure near the base of the spine to which the legs are attached in humans and many animals. It forms a basin-shaped ring of bones that supports the internal organs of the lower abdomen.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The pelves of several ancient skeletons were examined by the archaeologists. (The plural form is used to describe multiple pelvic structures.)
  • In comparative anatomy, the pelves of birds and mammals show significant differences in shape. (Referring to multiple pelvic bones across species.)

Advanced Usage

• "pelvic girdle": a term sometimes used synonymously with in plural contexts, though "pelves" specifically refers to the anatomical structures.
  • The pelves of dinosaurs varied greatly in size and shape depending on their locomotion. (Used in scientific discussion of multiple specimens.)

Variants and Related Words

• Pelvis (noun, singular): the single bony structure.

  • The pelvis is a key part of the human skeletal system. (Singular form.)

• Pelvic (adjective): relating to the pelvis.

  • The pelvic floor muscles support the organs within the pelvis. (Adjective describing location or function.)

• Pelvimetry (noun): the measurement of the pelvis, especially in obstetrics.

  • Pelvimetry is used to assess the size of the birth canal. (A specific medical term.)

Synonyms

• Pelvic bones: a descriptive phrase for the bones forming the pelvis.
• Hip bones: a common term for the ilium, ischium, and pubis that make up the pelvis.

Related Idioms

• None specific to "pelves" as it is a technical anatomical term. However, in medical contexts:
  • "Wide pelves": refers to pelves with a broad shape, often discussed in obstetrics.

    • Women with wide pelves may have easier childbirth. (A descriptive idiom in medical literature.)