Definition

A forked bone or part in animals, commonly known as the wishbone in birds.

Example

The chef carefully removed the furcula from the chicken before cooking it.

Conversation

Did you know that birds have a special bone called a furcula?

Really? What's that used for?

It's basically the wishbone, and it helps them with flight.

That’s fascinating! Nature has some clever designs.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Furcula** → The word 'furcula' comes from Latin 'furcula' (meaning little fork), which is a diminutive form of 'furca' (meaning fork or pitchfork). The term refers to a forked structure, particularly in anatomy, where it describes the forked bone found in birds, known as the wishbone.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word for fork ('furca') to remember that 'furcula' refers to a little forked structure, like the wishbone in birds.

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