Definition

A forked bone found in birds, formed by the fusion of the clavicles, commonly known as the wishbone.

Example

The children were excited to pull apart the furculum of the turkey during dinner.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term furculum?

No, I haven't. What does it mean?

It's actually the scientific name for a bird's wishbone, surprisingly interesting right?

That is interesting! I never knew that little bone had such a fancy name.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Furculum → It is derived from the Latin word 'furca' (meaning fork or forked stick) with the diminutive suffix '-ulum' (indicating smallness). The word 'furculum' refers to a small fork or fork-like structure.

Memory Tip

Picture a small 'fork' ('furca') when you think of 'furculum' — it helps you remember that it means a small fork.

Visually Confused Words