Ilium
(noun)
The upper and widest bone of the hipbone, located at the back and flaring out to the sides.
Origin:
From the latin word ile meaning 'flank'.
Examples:
- The ilium is a crucial part of the pelvic girdle, providing stability and support to the torso.
- The doctor felt along the patient's ilium, searching for any signs of pain or discomfort.
- The ilium of a horse is a distinctive feature, and can be used to identify the species.
- The ilium is one of three bones that make up the hipbone, along with the ischium and pubis.
- The patient had a severe fracture of the ilium, which required surgery to repair.