clavicle

noun

clav·​i·​cle ˈkla-vi-kəl How to pronounce clavicle (audio)
: a bone of the shoulder girdle typically serving to link the scapula and sternum

called also collarbone

clavicular adjective

Examples of clavicle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Understanding the relationship between handedness and impacts to the clavicle is crucial. Ashley Strickland, CNN, 31 Oct. 2024 To cap it off, run the roller from the center of the forehead up into the hairline five times, then from the clavicle up to the back of the ear five times. Lauren Valenti, Vogue, 4 Oct. 2024 The injections specifically target the platysma muscle, which spans the lower part of the face and extends to the clavicle. Taryn Brooke, Allure, 12 Sep. 2024 In the cover photo, Jenner wears an off-the-shoulder eggplant gown, and poses with her head tilted back and her hand on her clavicle. Kathleen Walsh, Glamour, 15 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for clavicle 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'clavicle.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

French clavicule, from New Latin clavicula, from Latin, diminutive of Latin clavis; akin to Greek kleid-, kleis key, kleiein to close

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of clavicle was in 1615

Dictionary Entries Near clavicle

Cite this Entry

“Clavicle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clavicle. Accessed 4 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

clavicle

noun
clav·​i·​cle ˈklav-i-kəl How to pronounce clavicle (audio)
: a bone of the shoulder that joins the breastbone and the shoulder blade

called also collarbone

Medical Definition

clavicle

noun
clav·​i·​cle ˈklav-i-kəl How to pronounce clavicle (audio)
: a bone of the shoulder girdle that links the scapula and sternum, is situated just above the first rib on either side of the neck, and has the form of a narrow elongated S

called also collarbone

clavicular adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on clavicle

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!