General Anatomy · Skeletal System · Medium
Osteoclast
Meaning: A large bone cell that breaks down and reabsorbs bone tissue during remodelling.
In practice: Bisphosphonates reduce bone loss in osteoporosis by slowing down osteoclasts.
Word parts
- osteo- means bone
Many medical words are built from Greek and Latin parts like these, so learning a few helps you work out new terms.
Quick check
Two questions on related general anatomy words.
Which word means: Flat, sheet-like tendon that connects muscle to bone or to other muscles.
Answer: Aponeurosis
Which word means: The throat — a muscular tube connecting the nasal cavity and mouth to the oesophagus.
Answer: Pharynx
Words like osteoclast come up in the daily game
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