Meaning & Definition
noun
The part of the body between the neck and the abdomen, which contains the heart and lungs in humans and other vertebrates.
The doctor listened to my thorax with a stethoscope to check my lung function.
In insects, the middle segment of the body, which bears the legs and wings.
The butterfly's colorful wings are attached to its thorax.
The part of an animal's body that corresponds to the human thorax, often used in medical or veterinary contexts.
The veterinarian examined the thorax of the dog to assess its breathing.
In anatomy, the region of the body that extends from the first rib to the diaphragm, including the ribs and sternum.
The surgeon made an incision in the thorax to perform the heart surgery.
The part of the body of an arthropod between the head and the abdomen.
The thorax of the spider was visibly segmented, showcasing its eight legs.
Etymology
From Greek 'thorax', meaning 'chest'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
thoracic cavity:
The space within the thorax containing the lungs and heart.
thoracic spine:
The section of the spine located in the thorax.
thoracic outlet syndrome:
A condition caused by compression of the nerves or blood vessels between the collarbone and the first rib.
Slang Meanings
Referring to someone's upper body strength.
That guy has a strong thorax from all that weight lifting.