clavicule

collarbone, clavicle

noun klah-vee-KOOL Rare

Origin: From Latin 'clavicula' (small key), for its key-like shape.

Usage Note

Clavicule is one of the most commonly broken bones in sports injuries. In French medical contexts it is always feminine. Se fracturer la clavicule ('to break one's collarbone') is a standard phrase in sports reporting. The word 'clavicle' in English is a direct borrowing of the same Latin root.

Examples

"Il s'est fracturé la clavicule en tombant."

Natural Translation

He fractured his collarbone when he fell.

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