ribcage
|rib/cage|
B2
/ˈrɪbˌkeɪdʒ/
protective bony structure
Etymology
Etymology Information
'ribcage' originates from Old English, specifically the words 'ribb' meaning 'rib' and 'cæġ' meaning 'cage'.
Historical Evolution
'ribcage' changed from the Old English word 'ribb' and 'cæġ' and eventually became the modern English word 'ribcage'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a structure of ribs', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the bony structure formed by the ribs and the bones to which they are attached, enclosing the heart and lungs.
The doctor examined the patient's ribcage for any fractures.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/02/16 13:21