pelvic bones crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling a puzzle and need a quick solution for "pelvic bones crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword skills.
Solutions for "pelvic bones crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ILIA: The plural form of ilium, referring to the large, blade-like upper parts of the hip bones that form the broadest part of the pelvis.
5 Letters
PUBES: The plural form of pubis, referring to the lower, front parts of the hip bones that join at the pubic symphysis.
COXAE: The plural form of coxa, which is a term for the entire hip bone (also known as the innominate bone or os coxa), made up of the ilium, ischium, and pubis.
6 Letters
ISCHIA: The plural form of ischium, referring to the lower, rear parts of the hip bones, often known as the "sit bones" as they bear weight when seated.
More About "pelvic bones crossword clue"
The "pelvic bones" typically refer to the pair of hip bones, also known as innominate bones or coxal bones. Each hip bone is a large, irregularly shaped bone composed of three main fused parts: the ilium, the ischium, and the pubis. These three bones meet at the acetabulum, a deep socket that articulates with the head of the femur to form the hip joint.
Together with the sacrum (a triangular bone at the base of the spine) and the coccyx (tailbone), these hip bones form the pelvic girdle. This robust bony structure serves several critical functions: supporting the weight of the upper body, protecting the pelvic organs (bladder, reproductive organs, parts of the large intestine), and providing strong attachment points for powerful muscles of the lower limbs and trunk.
Understanding these anatomical terms is often key to solving crosswords, as they are precise, commonly known in biological contexts, and their Latin or Greek origins often provide clues to their meaning and spelling, making them popular choices for puzzle constructors.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Look for Plurals: Clues like "bones" or "parts of" strongly suggest a plural answer. Many anatomical terms have specific plural forms (e.g., ilium/ilia, ischium/ischia, pubis/pubes, coxa/coxae).
- Consider Latin/Greek Roots: A significant number of anatomical terms are derived from classical languages. Knowing common prefixes and suffixes can sometimes help you deduce the word, even if you don't know it immediately.
- Cross-Reference: Always use intersecting words. If you have a few letters from a crossing answer, it can narrow down the possibilities for anatomical terms, which often have unique letter patterns.
- Think about Function: While "pelvic bones" points to structure, sometimes clues hint at function. Knowing what the pelvis does (support, protection, attachment) can trigger associated terms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main bone structure referred to as the pelvic girdle?
The pelvic girdle is the strong, bony ring formed by the two hip bones, the sacrum, and the coccyx. It connects the axial skeleton to the lower limbs and supports the weight of the upper body.
Why are anatomical terms like 'pelvic bones' common in crosswords?
Anatomical terms are precise, often derived from Latin or Greek, and have specific, unambiguous meanings and lengths, making them ideal candidates for crossword clues and answers. They also test general knowledge.
How do I determine if a crossword clue for a bone wants a singular or plural answer?
Always look closely at the wording of the clue. If it uses words like 'bones,' 'parts of,' 'structures,' or implies multiplicity, a plural answer is likely. Context from intersecting words can also provide crucial hints.