Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

coccyx

Noun

/ˈkɒksɪks/

Definition

The coccyx, commonly known as the tailbone, is a small, triangular bone at the base of the vertebral column in humans and some other vertebrates.

Examples

The coccyx can become painful if a person falls and sits directly on it.
In yoga, certain poses may help to relieve tension in the coccyx area.
During childbirth, the coccyx can flex backward to allow for the baby’s passage.

Meaning

In human anatomy, the coccyx is the remnant of a tail and is made up of three to five fused vertebrae. It is an important structure for the attachment of various muscles, tendons, and ligaments.