pectoral girdle

noun

(in vertebrates) a bony or cartilaginous arch supporting the forelimbs.

Also called shoulder girdle. (in humans) the bony arch formed by the clavicles, or collarbones, and scapulas, or shoulder blades.

Also called pectoral arch.

Origin

1885-90

Examples from the web for pectoral girdle

The frog pectoral girdle: a non-amniote model of bone formation.
On the left side the muscles have been removed, exposing the ventral bones of the pectoral girdle.

British Dictionary definitions for pectoral girdle

noun

a skeletal support to which the front or upper limbs of a vertebrate are attached

pectoral girdle in Medicine

pectoral girdle n.
A bony or cartilaginous structure in vertebrates, attached to and supporting the forelimbs. Also called pectoral arch.