Sacrum
/ˈseɪ.krəm/noun
The triangular bony structure at the base of the spine, forming the back of the pelvis.
Did you know?In ancient Rome, the sacrum was associated with the sacred, believed to house the spirit and vital forces of the body, linking life and death.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*sēk-
“to cut, separate, or set apart, suggesting a sense of holiness.”
Latin
Latin
sacer
“sacred, holy, set apart for the gods.”
Late Latin
Latin
sacrum
“the sacred bone, considered an important part of the body.”
Old French
Old French
sacrum
“the term adopted into the vernacular, retaining its sacred connotation.”
Modern English
English
sacrum
“the anatomical term referring to the bone, still imbued with its historical sacredness.”