How Do You Spell ATLANTOEPISTROPHIC?

Pronunciation: [ɐtlˌantə͡ʊpɪstɹˈɒfɪk] (IPA)

The word "atlantoepistrophic" is a mouthful to pronounce, let alone spell. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /ætˌlæntoʊɪˈstrɑfɪk/. The first syllable, "at," is pronounced with a short "a" sound, followed by the "lan" sound in "Lance." The "to" is pronounced with a long "o," followed by a "y" sound in "boy" and an "ee" sound in "meet." The final syllable starts with "stra" pronounced like "straw," followed by "fick." This word refers to a specific type of joint in the neck, which allows for rotation of the head.

ATLANTOEPISTROPHIC Meaning and Definition

1. Atlantoepistrophic is an adjective that refers to or relates to the joint existing between the atlas, the first cervical vertebra, and the axis, the second cervical vertebra, in the backbone of vertebrates, particularly mammals. This joint allows for the rotational movement of the head and neck. The term derives from the words "atlas," referring to the first cervical vertebra reminiscent of the Atlas of Greek mythology who held the world on his shoulders, and "epistrophic" meaning turning upon or revolving.

   The atlantoepistrophic joint, also known as the atlantoaxial joint, is crucial for enabling various movements of the head and neck, such as nodding, shaking, and rotating the head from side to side. This joint is specifically designed to provide stability while allowing flexibility. It consists of a peg-like process, known as the dens or odontoid process, emanating from the second cervical vertebra, which fits into a ring-like structure on the first cervical vertebra, forming a pivot point for movement.

   The atlantoepistrophic joint plays a vital role in maintaining proper posture, as well as facilitating essential functions such as breathing, swallowing, and sensory perception. It is vulnerable to certain disorders or injuries that can result in instability or restricted movement, leading to various health complications. Disorders of the atlantoepistrophic joint may require medical interventions, including physical therapy, traction, medication, or in severe cases, surgical procedures for stabilization or fusion of the joint.

2. Relating to the atlas and the epistropheus, or axis; atloaxoid, atlantoaxoid; noting the rotary joint between the two vertebrae.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for ATLANTOEPISTROPHIC

• ztlantoepistrophic
• stlantoepistrophic
• wtlantoepistrophic
• qtlantoepistrophic
• arlantoepistrophic
• aflantoepistrophic
• aglantoepistrophic
• aylantoepistrophic
• a6lantoepistrophic
• a5lantoepistrophic
• atkantoepistrophic
• atpantoepistrophic
• atoantoepistrophic
• atlzntoepistrophic
• atlsntoepistrophic
• atlwntoepistrophic
• atlqntoepistrophic
• atlabtoepistrophic
• atlamtoepistrophic
• atlajtoepistrophic

Etymology of ATLANTOEPISTROPHIC

The word "atlantoepistrophic" combines two root words: "atlanto" and "epistrophic".

1. "Atlanto-" is derived from "Atlas", which refers to the Greek mythological figure Atlas, who was believed to hold up the celestial sphere. In anatomy, "Atlas" is also the name given to the first cervical vertebra (C1), which supports the skull and allows for head movement.

2. "Epistrophic" originates from the Greek word "epistrophe", meaning "a turning around". In this context, it refers to the ability of the atlas vertebra to rotate around the dens, a projection from the second cervical vertebra (C2).

Combining these two roots, "atlantoepistrophic" is used to describe the joint between the first and second cervical vertebrae, specifically referring to their rotational movement.