Definition

Noun: - The bony structure that connects the lower limbs to the axial skeleton: The pelvic girdle is the ring-like structure formed by the two hip bones (each consisting of the ilium, ischium, and pubis) and the sacrum. It provides support and stability for the body's weight and serves as an attachment point for the legs.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The pelvic girdle is wider in females than in males.
  • A strong pelvic girdle is essential for walking and running.
  • The fossil showed a well-preserved pelvic girdle.

Advanced Usage

• In anatomical description: The term is used to describe the complete ring, distinguishing it from the individual "hip bone" or "pelvic bone."
  • The study focused on the evolution of the tetrapod pelvic girdle.
• In medical contexts: Often discussed in relation to injuries, pain, or developmental conditions.
  • The X-ray revealed a fracture in the pelvic girdle.

Variants and Related Words

• Pelvis (n): Often used interchangeably in general contexts, though "pelvis" can refer more broadly to the basin-shaped structure including the pelvic cavity.
• Hip bone (n): Refers to one of the two large bones that form the sides of the pelvic girdle.
• Innominate bone (n): Another term for the hip bone.

Synonyms

• Pelvic arch: A less common synonym emphasizing the arched, ring-like shape.
• Hip girdle: A synonym that highlights its function as a girdle for the hip region.

Related Phrases

• Pelvic girdle pain: A specific medical term for pain in this region, common during pregnancy.
  • She was diagnosed with pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain.
• Girdle of the lower limb: A descriptive anatomical phrase equivalent to "pelvic girdle."

Noun

1. the structure of the vertebrate skeleton supporting the lower limbs in humans and the hind limbs or corresponding parts in other vertebrates