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Definition of humerus

humerus

/ˈhjuː.mɚ.əs/
hu · mer · us
Plural:humeri
•
Adjective:humeral
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humerus Lexical Profile

humerus Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The long bone of the upper arm or forelimb in vertebrates, extending from the shoulder joint to the elbow where it articulates with the radius and ulna.

Example

"The orthopedic surgeon examined the X-ray to determine whether the fracture in the patient's humerus required a cast or surgical pins."

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse the anatomical noun 'humerus' with its homophone 'humorous', an adjective meaning funny or amusing; this similarity inspired the colloquial term 'funny bone' for the ulnar nerve running behind the humerus.

• Rhymes for humerus

• Nearby Words

humbug
humdinger
humdrum
humerus
humid
humidex
humidifier

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 16th century directly from Latin 'humerus' (originally 'umerus'), meaning 'upper arm' or 'shoulder', cognate with Ancient Greek 'omos' and Sanskrit 'amsa'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Humerus. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/humerus
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