Chapter 6: Skeletal System - Vocab

Amphiarthrosis

A type of joint that allows limited movement

Appendicular skeleton

The part of the skeleton that includes the limbs and the bones that connect them to the body (like the shoulder and pelvic girdles).

Articulation

The point where two bones meet

Axial skeleton

The central part of the skeleton

Bursa

A small

Compact bone

The dense

Diaphysis

The long central shaft of a long bone.

Diarthrosis

A type of joint that allows for free movement

Epiphysis

The end part of a long bone

Fracture

A break in a bone.

Ligament

A tough band of fibrous tissue that connects bones to other bones at a joint.

Marrow cavity

The hollow center of long bones that contains bone marrow.

Meniscus

A crescent-shaped cartilage in some joints

Ossification

The process of bone formation

Osteoblast

A type of cell that creates new bone tissue.

Osteoclast

A type of cell that breaks down bone tissue

Osteocyte

A mature bone cell that helps maintain bone tissue.

Osteon

The basic structural unit of compact bone

Periosteum

A thick membrane that covers the outer surface of bones

Spongy bone

A lighter

Synarthrosis

A type of joint that allows little to no movement

Synovial fluid

A lubricating fluid found in synovial joints that reduces friction and provides nourishment to the cartilage.