Human skeleton
Human Skeleton
The Human Skeleton (pronunciation: /ˈhjuːmən ˈskɛlɪtən/) is the internal framework of the body. It is composed of around 270 bones at birth – this total decreases to around 206 bones by adulthood after some bones get fused together.
Etymology
The term "skeleton" comes from the Greek word "skeletos", which means "dried up". The term "human" is derived from the Latin word "humanus", meaning "of man" or "human".
Structure
The human skeleton can be divided into the axial skeleton and the appendicular skeleton. The axial skeleton is formed by the vertebral column, the rib cage, the skull and other associated bones. The appendicular skeleton, which is attached to the axial skeleton, is formed by the shoulder girdle, the pelvic girdle and the bones of the upper and lower limbs.
Functions
The human skeleton performs six major functions; support, movement, protection, production of blood cells, storage of minerals and endocrine regulation.
Related Terms
- Bone: The rigid organ that constitutes part of the vertebrate skeleton.
- Cartilage: A resilient and smooth elastic tissue, a rubber-like padding that covers and protects the ends of long bones at the joints.
- Ligament: The fibrous connective tissue that connects bones to other bones.
- Tendon: The tissue by which muscle attaches to bone. A tendon serves to move the bone or structure.
- Joint: The location at which two or more bones make contact.
- Marrow: The flexible tissue in the interior of bones.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Human skeleton
- Wikipedia's article - Human skeleton
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