By reviewing the following terms, it will help you understand the discussion of bones more easily.

Extremity

The distal or terminal portion of a bone. An arm or leg is also referred to as an extremity.

Diaphysis, Shaft, or Body

The long, cylindrical part or the principal portion of a bone.

Epiphyseal Zone

The area between the shaft and the end of a bone where growth or an increase in length occurs.

Head

The expanded portion at the end of a bone, usually rounded.

Neck: The constricted portion of the bone next to the head.

Base

The expanded portion at the end of a bone opposite to its head.

Ramas

A branch of a bone.

Projections

Process: A general term for a projection.

Spine: A sharp projection.

Tubercle: A small, rounded, rough projection.

Tuberosity: A large eminence (prominence or projection), usually roughened, for the attachment of tendons or ligaments.

Styloid process: Like a stylus.

Trochanter: A very large, roughened process.

Crest: A projecting ridge of bone.

Condyle: A smooth, rounded, swelling at the articular end of a bone.

Epicondyle: A small eminence of bone above the condyle, usually roughened.

Coracoid process: A beak-like process.

Coronoid process: A crown-like process.

Malleolus: Process resembling a little hammer.

Depressions Found on Bones

Fossa: Shallow depression.

Facet: A smooth depression on the surface of a bone for articulation with another bone.

Groove or sulcus: An elongated depression on the surface of a bone; a furrow.

Pit: An indentation.

Other Terms Relating to Bones

Fissure: A narrow slit between two bones.

Foramen: A hole or opening in a bone.

Sinus or Antrum: Terms used to designate a hollow space within a bone.

Meatus: An opening to a passageway.

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