What is a 'bony plate' in anatomical terms?

In anatomical terms, a 'bony plate' generally refers to any relatively flat and thin section of bone. These plates can be found in various parts of the body, serving functions like protection (e.g., skull, sternum), muscle attachment (e.g., scapula), or forming part of a joint (e.g., patella). Examples include parts of the skull, the sternum (breastbone), or the sacrum.

Are all 'plates' in the body bony?

No, not all 'plates' in the body are bony. The term 'plate' can refer to various flat, sheet-like structures, which can be cartilaginous (like the epiphyseal plate in growing bones), fibrous (like some aponeuroses), or composed of other tissues. However, in the context of 'bony plate', the focus is specifically on structures made of bone.

How does 'bony plate' differ from a regular 'bone' in a crossword clue?

While all bony plates are bones, the specific term 'bony plate' in a crossword clue often directs you towards answers that are specifically flat or shield-like in shape, rather than cylindrical (like a femur) or irregular (like a vertebra). It suggests an answer like SCUTE, PATELLA, STERNUM, or even parts of the skull, rather than just any random bone.

bony plate crossword – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "bony plate crossword", you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of solutions, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease. Discover answers sorted by length and gain insights into the terminology.

Solutions for "bony plate crossword" by Letter Count

5 Letters

SCUTE: A horny, bony external plate or scale, as on a turtle's shell or an armadillo. It's a common term in zoology for such protective structures.

6 Letters

SACRUM: A large, triangular bone at the base of the spine, formed from the fusion of several vertebrae. Its broad, flat shape allows it to be described as a bony plate.

LAMINA: Refers to a thin plate or layer, especially a flat part of a bone, such as the vertebral lamina which forms part of the vertebral arch.

7 Letters

PATELLA: Also known as the kneecap, this is a thick, circular-triangular bone that articulates with the femur and protects the knee joint. It is a classic example of a sesamoid bone and has a distinct plate-like structure.

STERNUM: Commonly known as the breastbone, the sternum is a flat, dagger-shaped bone located in the central part of the chest. It forms the front of the rib cage, making it a prominent bony plate.

8 Letters

SKULLCAP: The dome-shaped upper part of the cranium, composed of several fused bony plates (e.g., frontal, parietal, occipital bones) that protect the brain.

More About "bony plate crossword"

The term "bony plate" often appears in crosswords, challenging solvers to think beyond common bone names to more specific anatomical structures or zoological features. These plates are distinct for their relatively flat, broad surfaces, contrasting with the more common elongated or irregular shapes of other bones in the human or animal skeleton.

From the protective carapace of a turtle (composed of scutes) to the human breastbone (sternum) or kneecap (patella), bony plates serve crucial functions like protection of vital organs, providing broad surfaces for muscle attachment, or contributing to the structural integrity of the body. Understanding the specific function and location of these structures can often provide the key to unlocking the correct crossword answer.

When you encounter "bony plate" in a clue, consider not just human anatomy but also comparative anatomy, as many animals possess specialized bony plates for defense or locomotion. This broader perspective can help you arrive at less obvious but correct solutions.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters is often the most critical hint. Our solutions are grouped by length to help you quickly narrow down possibilities for "bony plate crossword".
Consider the Context: Does the rest of the puzzle lean towards anatomy, zoology, or a more general term? The broader theme of the crossword can guide your choice between multiple plausible answers for a clue like "bony plate".
Look for Overlapping Letters: Use letters already filled in from intersecting clues. Even if you're unsure, a single confirmed letter can eliminate many incorrect options and confirm the correct "bony plate" answer.
Think Beyond Human Anatomy: While many anatomical clues relate to humans, "bony plate" can also refer to structures found in other animals (like the scute of a turtle). Broaden your anatomical vocabulary.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common crossword answer for "bony plate"?

While answers can vary by puzzle, SCUTE (5 letters) is a very frequent and direct answer for "bony plate," especially when referring to external, protective plates found on animals like turtles or armadillos.

Can a skull bone be considered a "bony plate"?

Yes, absolutely. Many bones of the skull, such as the frontal, parietal, and occipital bones, are excellent examples of bony plates. They are broad, relatively flat, and serve to protect the brain, making SKULLCAP (8 letters) a strong candidate for this clue.

Is there a "bony plate" in the leg?

Yes, the PATELLA (7 letters), commonly known as the kneecap, is a prime example of a bony plate found in the leg. It's a sesamoid bone that is broad and relatively flat, protecting the knee joint.