Kyphotic
/kaɪˈfɒtɪk/noun
Relating to or characterized by an abnormal outward curvature of the upper spine.
Did you know?The medical term comes from Ancient Greek kýphos, meaning a hump or hunch, rather than from a modern anatomical metaphor.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
kýphos (κῡ́φος)
“A hump, hunch, or rounded protuberance”
Ancient Greek
Greek
kyphóō (κῡφόω)
“To make hump-shaped or bent”
19th Century
International Medical Latin
kyphosis
“Abnormal backward curvature of the spine”
19th Century
Medical English
kyphotic
“Relating to or characterized by kyphosis”
Modern English
English
kyphotic
“Describing a spine or posture with excessive outward curvature”
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