Fossa - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A fossa is a large, carnivorous mammal native to Madagascar, resembling a cat. It is also an anatomical term for a shallow depression or hollow in a bone or organ.
Definition:
A shallow depression or hollow in a bone or anatomical structure.
Synonyms:
pit, cavity, hollow, depression
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
bulge, protrusion
Common Collocations:
temporal fossa, mandibular fossa, iliac fossa, glenoid fossa
Derivatives:
fossae (plural), fossate (adj.)
Usage Tips:
Use "fossa" to describe anatomical depressions; avoid in general contexts unless discussing biology or medicine.
Common Phrases:
"fossa ovalis, " "mandibular fossa, " "iliac fossa"
Etymology:
From Latin "fossa," meaning "ditch" or "trench."
Examples:
- 1. The cat’s skull has a deep fossa for muscle attachment.
- 2. The doctor examined the iliac fossa for signs of tenderness.
- 3. A fossilized femur often shows a distinct fossa near the joint.
- 4. The glenoid fossa articulates with the humerus in the shoulder joint.