Definition

The smallest and lowest part of the breastbone, located at the bottom of the sternum.

Example

The doctor explained that the xiphisternum is important for understanding rib cage anatomy.

Conversation

Did you know the xiphisternum is the smallest part of the sternum?

Really? I never heard of that before!

Yeah, it's also called the xiphoid process.

That’s interesting! Anatomy is full of these little details.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Xiphisternum → It is formed from "xiphoid" (from Greek "xiphos", meaning sword) and "sternum" (from Latin "sternum", meaning breastplate or chest). The word refers to the sword-like shape of the xiphoid process at the lower end of the sternum, which is part of the chest structure.

Memory Tip

Imagine a sword ('xiphos') at the bottom of your chest ('sternum') — that's why the xiphisternum is related to the sword-like shape at the base of the breastbone.

Visually Confused Words