hip bones crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the clue "hip bones," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct solution for your puzzle.
Solutions for "hip bones crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
OSSA: Latin plural for bones, sometimes used generally for bone structures.
5 Letters
ILIUM: The large, flaring upper part of the hip bone.
PUBIS: The anterior and inferior part of the hip bone.
6 Letters
PELVIS: The large bony structure that supports the spine and connects to the legs, often referred to when "hip bones" are collectively meant.
7 Letters
ISCHIUM: The lower, posterior part of the hip bone, commonly known as the 'sit bone'.
More About "hip bones crossword clue"
The term "hip bones" in a crossword clue often refers to the individual components of the pelvic girdle or the collective structure itself. The human hip bone, also known as the coxal bone or innominate bone, is formed by the fusion of three distinct bones: the ilium, the ischium, and the pubis. These bones articulate with the sacrum (part of the spine) posteriorly and with each other anteriorly to form the sturdy ring-like structure of the pelvis.
Crossword setters love anatomical terms because they are precise yet can have broader everyday meanings or be known by their Latin roots. When you see a clue like "hip bones," consider whether the puzzle is looking for a specific individual bone (like ILIUM), a collective term for the entire structure (like PELVIS), or even a less common anatomical synonym or plural form (like OSSA, Latin for bones).
Understanding the context of the puzzle, such as the theme or other solved letters, can significantly help narrow down the possibilities. For instance, if other answers are also Latin-derived anatomical terms, 'OSSA' might be a strong contender for a shorter answer. Always cross-reference with surrounding letters to ensure the best fit.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Anatomically: When the clue is biological or medical, consider both common names and scientific/Latin terms. Many crosswords favor the latter for their precise nature and varied letter counts.
- Check Plurals and Singulars: "Bone" vs. "bones" can dictate whether you're looking for a single entity (like ILIUM) or a collective (like PELVIS) or even a Latin plural (like OSSA).
- Use Cross-References: Don't try to solve a tricky clue in isolation. The intersecting words are your best friends. Even one letter can often confirm or deny a potential answer for "hip bones."
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Regularly reading about diverse topics, including anatomy, geography, literature, and history, will naturally build the broad vocabulary needed for crosswords.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary bones that form the human hip?
The human hip bone (also known as the innominate bone or coxal bone) is actually made up of three fused bones: the ilium (the large, flaring upper part), the ischium (the lower, posterior part, often referred to as the 'sit bone'), and the pubis (the lower, anterior part that joins in the front).
Why might 'PELVIS' be an answer for 'hip bones'?
'PELVIS' refers to the entire basin-shaped structure formed by the hip bones and the sacrum. While not individual 'hip bones,' in a crossword context, it's often used as a collective term when the clue points to the region or the overarching bony structure, especially if a singular bone name like 'ILIUM' isn't the intended length.
How can I distinguish between similar anatomical crossword clues?
To distinguish, pay attention to the exact phrasing (singular vs. plural), the required letter count, and the puzzle's theme. Many anatomical terms have precise meanings, but crosswords sometimes use broader definitions. Familiarity with common prefixes/suffixes and Latin roots can also be very helpful.