METATARSUS Meaning and
Definition
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Metatarsus refers to the segment of the foot in vertebrates that lies between the tarsus (ankle) and the phalanges (toes). Specifically, metatarsus pertains to the bones of the foot located between the tarsal bones and the phalanges. In humans, the metatarsus is composed of five long bones, known as metatarsal bones, which are numbered from the first (proximal) to the fifth (distal) metatarsal bone.
The metatarsal bones are tubular in shape and have a head, shaft, and base. The head of each metatarsal articulates with the proximal phalanx, forming the metatarsophalangeal joint. These bones provide stability and support, enabling humans to bear weight and engage in activities such as walking, running, and jumping.
In addition to humans, metatarsus is also present in other mammals, including quadrupeds. In quadrupeds, the metatarsus is involved in locomotion and plays an important role in weight distribution and propulsion. The metatarsal bones in quadrupeds vary in number and shape depending on the species.
Overall, the metatarsus is a crucial anatomical component of the foot, providing structural support, mobility, and balance. Understanding the metatarsus and its function is essential in fields such as anatomy, biology, and podiatry, as it provides insights into the mechanics of walking and the overall health of the feet.
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The anterior portion of the foot between the instep and the toes, having as its skeleton the five long bones (metatarsal bones) articulating posteriorly with the cuboid and cuneiform bones and anteriorly with the phalanges.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The part of the foot between the ankle and the toes.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for METATARSUS
Etymology of METATARSUS
The word "metatarsus" has its roots in Ancient Greek. It is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "meta", which means "beyond" or "after", and "tarsos", which refers to the flat surface at the end of the foot, corresponding to the instep or the sole of the foot. Therefore, "metatarsus" literally means "beyond the tarsus" or "after the tarsus". It is used in anatomy to describe the region of the foot between the ankle and the toes, where the metatarsal bones are situated.
Similar spelling words for METATARSUS
- 'metatarsus',
- mediator,
- tarso-metatarsus,
- mediatrix,
- Mediatory,
- Metatarseus,
- metatheria,
- mediatrices,
- metatarsal,
- mediatresses,
- matetarsus.
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