SKIP TO CONTENT

xiphoid

/ˈzɪfɔɪd/
IPA guide

The adjective xiphoid describes any part of the body that's shaped like a sword. It's mostly used for the xiphoid process, a small, triangular part of the human breastbone.

Your xiphoid process is located in the middle of your chest, where your sternum and lower ribs meet. This anatomical feature got its name from the swordlike shape of its lower edge; the Greek root, xiphos, means "sword." You could also use xiphoid as a fancy way to describe anything in the curved shape of a sword, like the xiphoid leaves of your favorite houseplant, but it's unlikely anyone will understand what you mean!

Definitions of xiphoid
  1. adjective
    of a skeletal structure that is shaped like a sword blade
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘xiphoid'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family