Coccyx
/ˈkɒk.ɪks/noun
The small, triangular bone at the base of the vertebral column in humans, formed by the fusion of several vertebrae.
Did you know?The term 'coccyx' is derived from the Greek word 'kokkyx', which means 'cuckoo', as its shape resembles that of the bird's beak, hinting at ancient associations with transformation and rebirth.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
kokkyx
“Cuckoo, named for its resemblance to the bird's beak.”
Middle Ages
Latin
coccyx
“The small bone at the base of the spine, retaining the Greek symbolism.”
16th Century
Late Latin
coccyx
“Adopted into medical terminology, still retaining references to its shape.”
Modern English
English
coccyx
“The anatomical term solidified in English, symbolizing both physical and symbolic grounding.”