Thorax
(noun)
The part of the human body between the neck and the abdomen that contains the heart, lungs, and other vital organs.
Origin:
Late 16th century: via latin from greek thorax, -akos "breastplate, thorax".
Examples:
- The human thorax is a very complex structure, with the ribcage protecting vital organs like the heart and lungs.
- The thorax of a bee contains the flight muscles, digestive system and reproductive organs.
- The bones of the thorax protect the delicate and important organs such as the heart and lungs.
- A surgeon needs to know the anatomy of the thorax in order to perform delicate procedures.
- The thorax of an insect is divided into three parts: the prothorax, mesothorax, and metathorax.