Word: Thoracic Vertebra
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: A thoracic vertebra is one of the 12 small bones that make up a part of the spine (also called the vertebral column) in the back of a human body. These vertebrae start from the seventh cervical vertebra (which is located in the neck area) and go down to the first lumbar vertebra (which is in the lower back area).
Imagine your spine is like a stack of building blocks. The thoracic vertebrae are a special group of blocks that are found in the middle part of your back. They help support your body and protect your spinal cord.
In medical or anatomical discussions, you might hear terms like "thoracic spine" or "thoracic region," which refer to the area of the back where the thoracic vertebrae are located.
The term "thoracic" can also refer to things related to the chest area in general, not just the vertebrae. For example, "thoracic cavity" refers to the space in the chest that contains the heart and lungs.
There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly relate to "thoracic vertebra." However, understanding the term can help you better comprehend phrases related to health and anatomy.
In summary, the thoracic vertebrae are a crucial part of your spine located in the middle of your back. They play an essential role in supporting your body and protecting your nervous system.