Coccygean

/kɒˈsɪdʒɪən/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or located in the coccyx, which is the small triangular bone at the base of the spine.

Etymology

From Greek 'kokkyx' meaning cuckoo bird (because the bone resembles a cuckoo's beak) plus the suffix '-ean' meaning relating to or belonging to. The anatomical term evolved from this fanciful comparison by ancient physicians.

Kelly Says

The coccyx got its funny name because ancient Greeks thought it looked like a cuckoo bird's beak! This proves that even scientists use creative metaphors—and some anatomical names from centuries ago have stuck around because they're just too memorable to change.

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