👁 What Does “Epigastric Fossa” Mean? Epigastric fossa is the medical term for the shallow hollow located in the upper mid-abdomen, just below the sternum (breastbone). The word comes from Greek roots: epi- meaning upon, gaster meaning stomach, and Latin fossa meaning hollow or depression. In clinical medicine, it is used to describe both an […]
👁 What Does “Costal Arch” Mean? The costal arch is the curved lower border of the rib cage formed by the cartilage of ribs 7 to 10. The word costal comes from the Latin costa, meaning rib, while arch describes the bow-shaped structure it creates across the upper abdomen. In medical contexts, “costal arch” is […]
👁 What Does “Infrasternal Angle” Mean? The infrasternal angle is the angle formed where the lower ribs meet just beneath the sternum. The term comes from Latin roots: infra meaning “below,” and sternum, the breastbone of the chest. In medicine, it is used mainly in anatomy teaching and physical examination to describe the shape of […]
👁 What Does “Xiphoid Process” Mean? The term xiphoid process refers to the small projection at the lower end of the sternum (breastbone). The word comes from the Greek xiphos, meaning sword, because of its thin, pointed shape. “Process” is a common anatomical term for a bony projection or outgrowth. In medicine, xiphoid process is […]
👁 What Does “Midclavicular Line” Mean? The midclavicular line (MCL) is a vertical reference line drawn downward from the midpoint of the clavicle. The term comes from modern anatomical English — mid- meaning “middle,” and clavicular referring to the clavicle (collarbone). It is widely used in medicine because it provides a consistent landmark for describing […]
👁 What Does “Supraclavicular Fossa” Mean? The term supraclavicular fossa literally means “the hollow above the clavicle.” It comes from Latin: supra (above) + clavicula (clavicle) + fossa (ditch or depression). In medicine, it refers to the small triangular hollow located between the clavicle and the base of the neck. Healthcare professionals frequently use this […]
👁 What Does “Jugular Notch” Mean? The jugular notch refers to the visible and palpable dip at the top of the sternum, located between your left and right clavicles. The term comes from Latin, relating to the throat region, which makes sense given its location at the base of the neck. In medical settings, it […]
In this article, we break down a Respiratory role-play scenario commonly seen in OET Speaking: a 40-year-old long-term smoker presenting with fatigue, shortness of breath, wheezing, and frequent infections. The doctor must diagnose COPD, manage the patient’s distress, and strongly encourage smoking cessation. Case Overview Here is the role play card for the doctor. Setting […]
👁 What Does “Areola” Mean? The areola is the circular, pigmented area of skin that surrounds the nipple. The term comes from the Latin word areola, meaning “small open space” or “little area.” In medicine, it refers specifically to this distinct anatomical region, noted for its color, texture, and role in breastfeeding. Healthcare professionals use […]
👁 What Does “Nipple” Mean? The nipple is the small raised structure on the surface of the breast where milk ducts open. The word comes from modern English, though its roots trace back to older Germanic forms referring to a “small projection.” In medicine, the term is used in anatomy, breastfeeding assessments, endocrine evaluations, and […]