Furcula (Noun)
Meaning
A forked bone formed by the fusion of the clavicles of most birds.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- The wishbone, also known as the furcula, is a distinctive feature of many bird skeletons.
- In birds, the furcula serves as a spring-like structure that helps to store energy during flight.
- The furcula is formed by the fusion of the two clavicles, or collarbones, in most bird species.
- During the evolution of birds, the development of the furcula is thought to have played a key role in the origin of flight.
- The shape and size of the furcula can vary significantly between different bird species, reflecting their unique adaptations to their environments.