abduction (ab-DUK-shun)

Movement away from the midline of the body.

absorption (ab-SORP-shun)

Uptake or incorporation of a substance such as a gas or liquid or energy (light or heat) into another substance or tissue.

Electrolyte compound that releases hydrogen ions + (H) when dissolved in water; a compound with a pH below 7.

The quality of having a high number of + hydrogen ions (H) and a pH below 7.

acromial (ah-KRO-mee-uhl)

Pertaining to the highest point of the shoulder.

Thin protein myoﬁlaments in the muscle sarcomere.

action potential (AK-shun po-TEN-shul)

Electrochemical signal that travels along a neuron; also known as a nerve impulse .

Cellular transport mechanism that requires energy to move substances against a concentration or pressure gradient.

Having a sudden or rapid onset; not chronic.

acute stage (ah-KYOOT)

First phase of the healing process that includes hemorrhage, inﬂammation, secondary edema formation, spasm, and hematoma organization; also known as the inﬂammatory stage .

adaptation (a-dap-TAY-shun)

Adjustment in the sensitivity of a sensory receptor to continued or repeated stimulus.

adaptive immune response (a-DAP-tiv ih-MYOON)

Defensive body reaction involving B and T cell activation by a speciﬁc pathogen; also known as a speciﬁc immune response.

adduction (ad-DUK-shun)

Movement toward the midline of the body.

adenosine diphosphate (ADP) (uh-DEN-o-sin dy- FAHS-fayt)

Compound formed when one phosphate group is broken oﬀ an adenosine triphosphate (ATP) molecule to provide energy for cellular work.

adenosine triphosphate (ATP) (uh-DEN-o-sin try-FAHS-fayt)

Energy molecule produced by the mitochondria within cells.

adhesion (ad-HEE-zhun)

Point in connective tissue where ﬁbers are bound together and/or ground substance is thick and stiﬀ.

adrenal cortex (ah-DREE-nuhl KOR-teks)

Outer section of the adrenal glands; secretes mineralocorticoids, glucocorticoids, and small amounts of androgens.

adrenal gland (ah-DREE-nuhl)

Endocrine gland situated on top of each kidney; also known as suprarenal gland.

adrenal medulla (ah-DREE-nuhl meh-DU-lah)

Inner section of adrenal glands; secretes adrenaline and noradrenaline.

adrenaline (ah-DREN-ah-lin)

Hormone secreted by the adrenal medulla; its function is to support the ﬁght-or-ﬂight response of the autonomic nervous system.

adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) (ah-DREE-no- kor-tih-ko-TRO-pik)

One of the tropic hormones secreted by the anterior pituitary gland; stimulates the release of glucocorticoids from the adrenal cortex.

aerobic cellular metabolism (air-OH-bik)

Method of energy production that requires oxygen; includes the Krebs cycle.

afferent (AY-fair-rent)

Conducting toward a center; ﬂowing inward.

Muscle that generates most of the power for motion; also known as the prime mover.

The part of the stress response that stimulates the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system, which initiates the ﬁght-or-ﬂight response.

aldosterone (al-DAH-steh-rone)

Hormone secreted by the adrenal cortex; causes kidneys to increase sodium retention and secretion of potassium.

alkaline (AL-kuh-lin)

The quality of having a high number – of hydroxide ions (OH ) and a pH above 7.

Muscle physiology principle stating that all muscle ﬁbers in a motor unit must contract when threshold stimulus is delivered.

Antigen that triggers an allergic response of the immune system.

allopathic (al-o-PATH-ik)

Science-based Western medicine system that uses medication or surgery to treat or suppress symptoms or ill eﬀects of a disease rather than maintain and preserve health.

allostasis (al-o-STAY-sis)

State of having adapted to a chronic stressor by making physical or chemical changes in the body; a less healthy and stable homeostasis.

Neuronal reﬂex loop that mediates the stretch reﬂex; created by an alpha sensory neuron originating in the muscle spindle and an alpha motor neuron that stimulates extrafusal muscle ﬁbers.

alveoli (al-VEE-o-ly)

Microscopic air sacs in the lungs at the end of the bronchial tree that serve as the site of oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange (singular: alveolus).

amino acid (ah-MEE-no)

Molecular building block of proteins.

amniotic sac (am-nee-AH-tik)

Fluid-ﬁlled sac that surrounds and protects the growing embryo or fetus.

amphiarthrosis (am-fee-ar-THRO-sis)

Type of joint in which there is a cartilage disc between bony surfaces that allows partial movement; also known as a cartilaginous joint .

anabolism (ah-NAB-o-lizm)

Process that occurs when the body uses nutrients as building blocks, either storing the nutrient for use at a later time or using it to repair and build new tissue.

anaerobic cellular metabolism (an-ah-RO-bik)

Method of energy production that occurs without the presence of oxygen; includes glycolysis, in which glucose is converted to pyruvic acid.

anastomosis (ah-NAS-tuh-MO-sis)

An end-to-end arrangement of nerves, blood, or lymph vessels.

anatomic position (an-ah-TOM-ik)

Position in which a person stands upright with arms at the sides and the face, palms, and feet facing forward; the basis for all regional, directional, and movement terminology.

anatomy (ah-NAT-o-mee)

The form and structure of an organism, such as the human body; also the branch of science that studies the structure of organisms.

Thin hair-like ﬁbers attached to the epithelial ﬂaps of lymphatic initial vessels that hold or anchor the initial vessel in place and open the vessel when pulled by tissue stretch.

androgen (AN-dro-jen)

Steroid that acts as a male sex hormone; controls the development of masculine characteristics in both sexes.

anemia (ah-NEE-mee-ah)

Condition that indicates a decreased number of red blood cells or decreased hemoglobin level.

Segment of a primary lymphatic vessel (collector) marked by intralymphatic valves at each end.

angulus venosus (ANG-gyu-lus ven-O-sus)

Junction between the lymphatic ducts and the subclavian veins; also known as the lymphatic terminus .

antagonist (an-TAG-ah-nist)

Muscle that opposes the agonist or prime mover.

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AP75 Vocabulary

Anatomy & Physiology

Term	Definition
abdominal (ab-DOM-ih-nal)	Relating to the abdomen (belly).
abdominopelvic cavity (ab-dom-ih-no-PEL-vik)	Most inferior of the two ventral cavities of the body; contains all of the abdominopelvic organs.
abduction (ab-DUK-shun)	Movement away from the midline of the body.
absorption (ab-SORP-shun)	Uptake or incorporation of a substance such as a gas or liquid or energy (light or heat) into another substance or tissue.
acid	Electrolyte compound that releases hydrogen ions + (H) when dissolved in water; a compound with a pH below 7.
acidic (ah-SID-ik)	The quality of having a high number of + hydrogen ions (H) and a pH below 7.
acromial (ah-KRO-mee-uhl)	Pertaining to the highest point of the shoulder.
actin (AK-tin)	Thin protein myoﬁlaments in the muscle sarcomere.
action potential (AK-shun po-TEN-shul)	Electrochemical signal that travels along a neuron; also known as a nerve impulse .
active transport	Cellular transport mechanism that requires energy to move substances against a concentration or pressure gradient.
acute (ah-KYOOT)	Having a sudden or rapid onset; not chronic.
acute stage (ah-KYOOT)	First phase of the healing process that includes hemorrhage, inﬂammation, secondary edema formation, spasm, and hematoma organization; also known as the inﬂammatory stage .
adaptation (a-dap-TAY-shun)	Adjustment in the sensitivity of a sensory receptor to continued or repeated stimulus.
adaptive immune response (a-DAP-tiv ih-MYOON)	Defensive body reaction involving B and T cell activation by a speciﬁc pathogen; also known as a speciﬁc immune response.
adduction (ad-DUK-shun)	Movement toward the midline of the body.
adenosine diphosphate (ADP) (uh-DEN-o-sin dy- FAHS-fayt)	Compound formed when one phosphate group is broken oﬀ an adenosine triphosphate (ATP) molecule to provide energy for cellular work.
adenosine triphosphate (ATP) (uh-DEN-o-sin try-FAHS-fayt)	Energy molecule produced by the mitochondria within cells.
adhesion (ad-HEE-zhun)	Point in connective tissue where ﬁbers are bound together and/or ground substance is thick and stiﬀ.
adrenal cortex (ah-DREE-nuhl KOR-teks)	Outer section of the adrenal glands; secretes mineralocorticoids, glucocorticoids, and small amounts of androgens.
adrenal gland (ah-DREE-nuhl)	Endocrine gland situated on top of each kidney; also known as suprarenal gland.
adrenal medulla (ah-DREE-nuhl meh-DU-lah)	Inner section of adrenal glands; secretes adrenaline and noradrenaline.
adrenaline (ah-DREN-ah-lin)	Hormone secreted by the adrenal medulla; its function is to support the ﬁght-or-ﬂight response of the autonomic nervous system.
adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) (ah-DREE-no- kor-tih-ko-TRO-pik)	One of the tropic hormones secreted by the anterior pituitary gland; stimulates the release of glucocorticoids from the adrenal cortex.
aerobic cellular metabolism (air-OH-bik)	Method of energy production that requires oxygen; includes the Krebs cycle.
afferent (AY-fair-rent)	Conducting toward a center; ﬂowing inward.
agonist (AG-ah-nist)	Muscle that generates most of the power for motion; also known as the prime mover.
alarm response	The part of the stress response that stimulates the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system, which initiates the ﬁght-or-ﬂight response.
aldosterone (al-DAH-steh-rone)	Hormone secreted by the adrenal cortex; causes kidneys to increase sodium retention and secretion of potassium.
alkaline (AL-kuh-lin)	The quality of having a high number – of hydroxide ions (OH ) and a pH above 7.
all-or-none response	Muscle physiology principle stating that all muscle ﬁbers in a motor unit must contract when threshold stimulus is delivered.
allergen (AL-er-jen)	Antigen that triggers an allergic response of the immune system.
allopathic (al-o-PATH-ik)	Science-based Western medicine system that uses medication or surgery to treat or suppress symptoms or ill eﬀects of a disease rather than maintain and preserve health.
allostasis (al-o-STAY-sis)	State of having adapted to a chronic stressor by making physical or chemical changes in the body; a less healthy and stable homeostasis.
alpha loop (AL-fah)	Neuronal reﬂex loop that mediates the stretch reﬂex; created by an alpha sensory neuron originating in the muscle spindle and an alpha motor neuron that stimulates extrafusal muscle ﬁbers.
alveoli (al-VEE-o-ly)	Microscopic air sacs in the lungs at the end of the bronchial tree that serve as the site of oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange (singular: alveolus).
amino acid (ah-MEE-no)	Molecular building block of proteins.
amniotic sac (am-nee-AH-tik)	Fluid-ﬁlled sac that surrounds and protects the growing embryo or fetus.
amphiarthrosis (am-fee-ar-THRO-sis)	Type of joint in which there is a cartilage disc between bony surfaces that allows partial movement; also known as a cartilaginous joint .
amylase (AM-ih-lays)	Enzyme that digests starch.
anabolism (ah-NAB-o-lizm)	Process that occurs when the body uses nutrients as building blocks, either storing the nutrient for use at a later time or using it to repair and build new tissue.
anaerobic cellular metabolism (an-ah-RO-bik)	Method of energy production that occurs without the presence of oxygen; includes glycolysis, in which glucose is converted to pyruvic acid.
anal canal (AY-nuhl)	Distal portion of the rectum.
anastomosis (ah-NAS-tuh-MO-sis)	An end-to-end arrangement of nerves, blood, or lymph vessels.
anatomic position (an-ah-TOM-ik)	Position in which a person stands upright with arms at the sides and the face, palms, and feet facing forward; the basis for all regional, directional, and movement terminology.
anatomy (ah-NAT-o-mee)	The form and structure of an organism, such as the human body; also the branch of science that studies the structure of organisms.
anchor ﬁlaments	Thin hair-like ﬁbers attached to the epithelial ﬂaps of lymphatic initial vessels that hold or anchor the initial vessel in place and open the vessel when pulled by tissue stretch.
androgen (AN-dro-jen)	Steroid that acts as a male sex hormone; controls the development of masculine characteristics in both sexes.
anemia (ah-NEE-mee-ah)	Condition that indicates a decreased number of red blood cells or decreased hemoglobin level.
angion (AN-jee-on)	Segment of a primary lymphatic vessel (collector) marked by intralymphatic valves at each end.
angulus venosus (ANG-gyu-lus ven-O-sus)	Junction between the lymphatic ducts and the subclavian veins; also known as the lymphatic terminus .
antagonist (an-TAG-ah-nist)	Muscle that opposes the agonist or prime mover.
antagonistic effect (an-TAG-ah-nis-tik)	Response in which two hormones work against each other such that one increases blood levels of a chemical and the other decreases them.
antebrachial (ant-ee-BRAY-kee-uhl)	Pertaining to the forearm.
antecubital (ant-ee-KYU-bit-ahl)	Pertaining to the anterior elbow.
anterior (an-TEER-ee-or)	Front; also known as ventral.
antibody (AN-tih-bah-dee)	Plasma protein released by plasma B cells that can bind with an antigen to neutralize or kill it; also known as immunoglobulin .
antibody-mediated immunity (AMI) (AN-tih-bah- dee MEE-dee-ay-ted ih-MYU-nih-tee)	Disease resistance produced through the activation of B cells.
antidiuretic hormone (ADH) (an-tih-dy-yur-REH- tik)	Hormone secreted by the posterior pituitary that inhibits urine production in the kidneys; also known as vasopressin .
antigen (AN-tih-jen)	Cellular marker that identiﬁes a cell as foreign and causes an immune response.
antimicrobial (an-tih-my-KRO-bee-al)	Any substance that destroys or inhibits the growth and development of microbes, preventing their pathogenic action.
antimicrobial peptide (an-tih-my-KRO-bee-al PEP-tide)	Short-chain amino acid produced by macrophages and mucus-producing epithelial cells; destroys pathogens.
anus (AY-nus)	Opening at the end of the anal canal through which waste is excreted.
aortic valve (ay-OR-tik)	Heart valve located between the left ventricle and the aorta.
apocrine glands (AP-o-krin)	Specialized sweat glands found in the axilla, groin, and areola of the breasts that secrete a milky ﬂuid consisting of sweat and pheromones.
aponeurosis (ap-oh-nah-RO-sis)	Broad sheet of connective tissue that serves as the attachment point for several muscles in the torso or thigh.
appendicular (ap-pen-DIK-yu-lar)	Pertaining to the portion of the skeleton made up of the bones of the limbs, including the bones of the pectoral and pelvic girdles.
appendix (uh-PEN-diks)	Small twisted tube located at the junction between the small and large intestines that contains lymphoid tissue.
arachnoid mater (ah-RAK-noyd MAH-ter)	Middle layer of the meninges, made of a web-like arrangement of connective tissue ﬁbers.
arrector pili (uh-REK-tor PEE-ly)	Small muscle attached to a hair follicle; when it contracts, the hair stands up straight.
arteriole (ar-TEER-ree-ole)	Small artery.
artery (AR-ter-ree)	Blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart.
arthrokinematics (ar-thro-kin-ah-MAT-iks)	The normal shift, slide, and rotational movements between articular surfaces; joint play.
articular cartilage (ar-TIK-yu-lar)	Type of hyaline connective tissue that covers the articulating surfaces of bones in a synovial joint.
articulation (ar-tik-yu-LAY-shun)	The point at which two or more bones meet; joint.
artiﬁcially acquired immunity (ar-tih-FISH-al-lee ah-kwy-erd ih-MYU-nuh-tee)	Disease resistance developed in response to an initial vaccination or subsequent booster shot.
ascending colon (ay-SEN-ding KO-lun)	Vertical segment of the large intestine on the right side of the abdominal cavity.
atom	Smallest particle (unit) of an element that has all the properties of the element; composed of electrons, neutrons, and protons; component of molecules.
atrioventricular (AV) bundle (ay-tree-o-ven-TRIK- yu-lar)	Located in the interventricular septum, the only region where action potentials can pass from the atria to the ventricles; also known as bundle of His .
atrioventricular (AV) node (ay-tree-o-ven-TRIK-yu-lar)	Collection of autorhythmic cardiac muscle cells located in the inferior portion of the septum between the atria that acts as an area of delay.
atrium (AY-tree-um)	Receiving chamber of the heart.
atrophy (A-tro-fee)	Wasting or shrinking of tissue or organs.
autoimmune disease (ah-to-ih-MYOON)	Disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s healthy cells and tissues.
autonomic (ah-to-NAH-mik)	Division of the peripheral nervous system that innervates glands, smooth muscle, and cardiac muscle.
autonomic ganglion (ah-toh-NAH-mik GANG-glee-on)	Collection of cell bodies and dendrites that forms a point of synapse for the two motor neurons in an autonomic pathway; junction box.
avascular (ay-VAS-kyu-lar)	Without blood vessels.
axial (AKS-see-al)	Pertaining to the portion of the skeleton made up of the bones in the skull, spine, and torso; includes the sternum, ribs, 33 vertebrae, and cranial, facial, and hyoid bones.
axillary (AKS-ih-lair-ee)	Located in or near the armpit.
axon (AKS-on)	Fibrous portion of a neuron that carries a nerve impulse from the cell body toward another neuron or eﬀector.
axon hillock (AKS-on HIL-ahk)	Small “bump” in a neuron where the axon attaches to the cell body.
axon terminal (AKS-on TERM-ih-nal)	Small branched end of an axon.
B cell	Specialized lymphocyte involved in antibody- mediated immunity; also called a B lymphocyte .
ball-and-socket joint	Type of synovial joint in which the rounded end of one bone ﬁts into a socket-like depression of another; allows all ﬁve basic movements.
baroreceptor (bair-o-ree-SEP-tor)	Sensory receptor sensitive to changes in ﬂuid pressure.
basal cell carcinoma (BCC) (BAY-suhl SEHL kar-sih-NO-mah)	Most common type of skin cancer.
basal metabolic rate (BMR) (BAY-suhl meh-tah-BAH- lik)	Rate at which energy is used by the body at rest; determined by the amount of oxygen used by body cells and represented as calories of heat.
base	Substance whose molecule or ion is capable of combining with a proton (hydrogen ion, ) to form a new substance; alkaline substance having a high number of − hydroxide ions (OH ) and a pH above 7.
basement membrane	Thin connective tissue layer to which epithelium is attached.
bicuspid valve (by-KUSS-pid)	Heart valve located between the left atrium and ventricle; also known as the mitral valve .
bile	Fat emulsiﬁer produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder.
biopsychosocial model (BY-o-SY-ko-SO-shul)	Interdisciplinary model that includes the interconnection between biology, psychology, and social-environmental factors.
bladder	Expandable membranous sac; for example, the urinary bladder serves as a holding tank (storage site) for urine before it is excreted from the body.
blastocyst (BLAS-to-sist)	Multicelled mass of tissue that develops into an embryo.
blood pressure	Force exerted by blood on the wall of a blood vessel.
body	Main portion or mass of any structure.
body planes	Planes that divide the body to establish front, back, top, bottom, right, and left sections.
bone landmarks	Distinctive lines, grooves, bumps, and projections on bones that serve as attachment points for muscles or passageways for blood vessels and nerves.
brachial (BRAY-kee-uhl)	Pertaining to the upper arm.
brain stem	Portion of the brain just above the spinal cord that relays information between the spinal cord and upper regions of the brain; consists of the medulla oblongata, pons, and midbrain.
bronchi (BRAHNG-ky)	Tube-like passageways that carry air to and from the lungs (singular: bronchus).
bronchial tree (BRAHNG-kee-uhl)	Air passageways from the trachea through the bronchi and bronchioles.
bronchiole (BRAHNG-kee-ole)	Smallest air passageway of the bronchial tree.
bulbourethral gland (bul-bo-yur-REE-thruhl)	One of two pea-sized glands inferior to the prostate that secretes a mucus-like substance that lubricates the urethra so sperm can easily pass through.
bundle branch	Component of the heart’s conduction system that diverges left and right from the AV bundle to carry the action potential down the interventricular septum to the apex of the heart.
bundle of His	Located in the interventricular septum, the only region where action potentials can pass from the atria to the ventricles; also known as an atrioventricular bundle .
bursa (BER-sah)	Small synovial ﬂuid–ﬁlled sac found in some synovial joints; cushions and reduces friction between the bone and ligaments, tendons, and/or muscles. bursitis Inﬂammation of a bursa.
calcaneal (kal-KAY-nee-uhl)	Pertaining to the heel of the foot.
calcify (KAL-sih-fy)	To deposit or store calcium salts; to harden due to the deposition of calcium salts.
calcitonin (kal-sih-TO-nin)	Hormone released by the thyroid gland; decreases blood calcium levels by enhancing bone absorption of the mineral.
calyx (KAY-liks)	Cup-like structure or organ; for example, in the kidney, a small cup at the bottom of a renal pyramid that collects urine and transfers it to the renal pelvis.
canaliculi (kan-ah-LIH-kyu-ly)	Intricate network of channels in dense bone tissue that allows for passage of nutrients and wastes to and from the osteocytes.
cancellous bone (KAN-sel-us)	Pertaining to porous or spongy bone tissue.
capillary (KAP-eh-lair-ee)	The smallest blood vessel; connects arterioles and venules. capillary bed (KAP-eh-lair-ee)
capillary exchange (KAP-eh-lair-ee)	Movement of substances through the wall of a capillary.
capillary ﬂuid pressure (CFP) (KAP-eh-lair-ee)	Force created by blood pressing out against the wall of the capillary.
capsule (KAP-suhl)	Fibrous connective tissue covering that envelops an organ, gland, or joint.
carbohydrate (kar-bo-HY-drayt)	Molecular compound containing a mixture of hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen atoms; includes starches and complex sugars that break down into glucose, which is used by the body to produce energy.
cardiac cycle (KAR-dee-ak)	The ordered sequence of atrial and ventricular contraction and relaxation that makes up one heartbeat.
cardiovascular system (kar-dee-o-VAS-kyu-lar)	Body system made up of the heart and blood vessels.
carpal (KAR-pahl)	Pertaining to the wrist.
cartilaginous joint (kar-tih-LA-juh-nus)	Type of joint in which there is a cartilage disc between bony surfaces that allows partial movement; also known as an amphiarthrosis .
catabolism (kah-TAB-o-lizm)	Any chemical process the body uses to break down nutrients to release energy.
catchment (KACH-ment)	Grouping of lymph nodes; also known as a lymph node bed .
catecholamine (kat-ah-KO-lah-meen)	Hormone secreted by the adrenal medulla; adrenaline and noradrenaline.
cauda equina (KAW-dah eh-KWY-nah)	Bundle of spinal nerve roots that fan out at the end of the spinal cord.
caudal (KAW-duhl)	Below; closer to the feet; inferior.
cecum (SEE-kum)	Initial short, pouch-like segment of the large intestine.
cell	Most basic functional unit of the body.
cell-mediated immunity (CMI) (SEL MEE-dee-ay-ted ih-MYU-nuh-tee)	Disease resistance produced through the activation of T cells.
cell membrane (SEL MEM-brayn)	Selectively permeable boundary surrounding all cells; also known as the plasma membrane .
central canal	Small opening in the center of the spinal cord that allows for circulation of cerebrospinal ﬂuid through the cord.
central nervous system (CNS)	Primary division of the nervous system; includes the brain and spinal cord.
centrosome	Cellular organelle that plays an important role in cell division and in producing and organizing the cytoskeleton.
cephalad (SEF-ah-lad)	Above; closer to the head; superior.
cephalic (seh-FAL-ik)	Pertaining to the head.
cerebellum (sair-eh-BEL-um)	Portion of the brain located posterior to the brain stem and inferior to the cerebrum that coordinates voluntary muscle contraction and maintains muscle tone, posture, and balance.
cerebral cortex (seh-REE-brahl KOR-teks)	Outer layer of the cerebrum; consists of gray matter.
cerebrospinal ﬂuid (CSF) (seh-ree-bro-SPY-nal)	Clear ﬂuid that lubricates and cushions the brain and spinal cord.
cerebrum (seh-REE-brum)	Largest and uppermost portion of the brain that is the center for consciousness, cognition, and motor activity.
cervical (SER-vih-kal)	Pertaining to the neck.
chemoreceptor (kee-mo-ree-SEP-tor)	Sensory receptor sensitive to chemical changes.
chemotaxis (kee-mo-TAKS-is)	Movement of cells in response to chemicals.
chondrocyte (KAHN-dro-site)	Cartilage cell.
choroid plexus (KOR-oyd PLEKS-us)	Collection of specialized capillaries in the ventricles of the cerebrum that secrete cerebrospinal ﬂuid.
chronic (KRAH-nik)	Having a gradual or long-term onset or prolonged duration.
chyme (KYM)	Semiliquid mixture of food and digestive juices created by the stomach and moved through the small intestine.
cilia (SIH-lee-ah)	Hair-like projections that extend outward from the plasma membrane of certain cells.
circuit (SUR-kut)	Patterned neuronal pathway; convergence or divergence are types of circuits.
circumduction (sur-kum-DUK-shun)	Multiaxial movement about a ﬁxed point; passes through all planes.
cisterna chyli (sis-TERN-ah KY-lee)	Enlarged sac at the base of the thoracic duct; collecting well for lymph from the lower extremities and abdominopelvic organs.
citric acid cycle	Aerobic metabolic process in which pyruvic acid is broken down and converted into carbon dioxide and water, producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and heat; also called the Krebs cycle .
clitoris (KLIH-tor-is)	Small bud of highly sensitive tissue at the anterior junction of the labia minor that becomes engorged during sexual arousal.
coagulation (ko-ag-yu-LAY-shun)	Process of blood clotting.
cochlea (KO-klee-ah)	Snail shell–shaped structure of the inner ear where the sensory receptors for hearing are located.
cognition (kog-NIH-shun)	Higher mental process involved in knowing and perceiving.
collagen (KAH-lah-jen)	Thick, extensible but not elastic ﬁber found in connective tissues.
collagen remodeling	Breakdown, recycling, and thickening of granulation tissue to form permanent scar tissue during tissue healing.
collector	Primary lymphatic vessel that receives lymph from the pre-collectors and carries it to lymph node beds or lymphatic trunks; also known as collecting vessel or lymphangia .
colon (KO-lun)	Longest segment of the large intestine.
common bile duct	Tube that carries bile from the gallbladder to the duodenum.
common hepatic duct (heh-PAT-ik)	Tube that carries bile out of the liver to the gallbladder.
communicable (kah-MYU-nih-kah-bal)	An infectious disease that is easily spread in a variety of direct and indirect ways, such as through air, contaminated food, and/ or insect bites.
compact bone	Dense bone tissue; see cortical .
complement protein (KAHM-pleh-ment PRO-teen)	Plasma protein involved in the body’s immune response that initiates the complement system when activated by a pathogen.
complication (kahm-pleh-KAY-shun)	Secondary disease or condition that aggravates an already existing disease.
compound	Substance consisting of atoms or ions of diﬀerent elements bound together.
concentric contraction (kahn-SEN-trik)	Isotonic contraction in which the muscle shortens and the insertion moves closer to the origin.
conception (kahn-SEP-shun)	Joining of one sperm and one egg; also known as fertilization .
conduction (kahn-DUK-shun)	Conveyance of energy; process by which a nerve impulse is transmitted.
conduction system (kahn-DUK-shun)	Organized network of autorhythmic cardiac muscle cells that produce the coordinated contractions of the heart.
condyle (KAHN-dile)	Rounded projection at the end of a bone; usually articulates with another bone.
condyloid joint (KAHN-deh-loyd)	Type of synovial joint characterized by two oval-shaped articular surfaces, one convex and one concave, that ﬁt into one another; allows ﬂexion, extension, abduction, and adduction; see ellipsoid joint .
cone	Photoreceptor of the eye sensitive to bright light and speciﬁc color wavelengths.
congenital (kahn-JEN-ih-tal)	Disease or defect present from birth.
connective tissue	Most abundant and widespread type of tissue in the body; functions to bind, support, protect, insulate, and transport.
contagious (kahn-TAY-jus)	Infectious diseases spread directly from one person to another. contractile
crest	Sharp ridge-like border of a bone.
crural (KRUH-ral)	Pertaining to the lower leg.
cubital (KYOO-bih-tal)	Pertaining to the elbow region.
cusp	Fold or ﬂap in a heart valve.
Cutaneous membrane (kyu-TAY-nee-us)	The outer covering of the body, made up of the epidermis and dermis; skin.
cutaneous receptor (kyu-TAY-nee-us ree-SEP-tor)	Sensory receptor located in the skin.
cyanotic (sy-ah-NAH-tik)	Bluish appearance of the skin that results from tissues not receiving enough oxygen.
cytokine (SY-to-kine)	Cell-signaling molecule.
cytokinesis (sy-to-kin-EE-sis)	Separation of the cytoplasm during cell division; ﬁnal stage of cell division.
cytology (sy-TAHL-o-jee)	Study of cells.
cytolysis (sy-TO-ly-sis)	Dissolution of a cell.
cytoplasm (SY-to-plaz-um)	Internal environment of a cell between the plasma membrane and the nucleus; includes the cytosol and organelles.
cytosol (SY-to-sahl)	Fluid component of cytoplasm.
cytotoxic T cell (sy-to-TOKS-ik)	Specialized T lymphocyte produced during a cell-mediated immune response that attacks and destroys pathogens; killer T cell.
deep	Farther from the surface.
deep fascia (FASH-ah)	Connective tissue layers that organize and surround individual muscles, bones, and organs.
defecation (def-eh-KAY-shun)	Elimination of feces through the anus.
dendrite (DEN-drite)	Fibrous portion of a neuron capable of receiving a stimulus.
deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) (dee-AHKS-ee-ry-bo-NU- klee-ik)	Nucleic acid that carries the human genetic code.
depolarization (dee-po-lah-ry-ZAY-shun)	First stage of an action potential when positive sodium ions rush in through open channels in the neuron’s cell membrane.
deposition (dep-o-ZIH-shun)	Formation of new bone; building up of bone tissue; literally “the act of depositing or laying down.”
dermal papillae (DERM-ahl pah-PIL-ly)	Finger-like projections of the dermis that extend into the germinating layer of the epidermis (singular: papilla).
dermatome (DERM-ah-tome)	Speciﬁc region of skin innervated by the branches of a particular spinal nerve.
dermis (DERM-is)	Connective tissue layer of the skin just below the epidermis that contains nerve endings, sweat glands, sebaceous glands, and blood and lymph vessels.
descending colon (dee-SEN-ding KO-lun)	Vertical segment of the large intestine on the left side of the abdominal cavity.
diagnosis (dy-ag-NO-sis)	Determination of the cause and nature of a disease, injury, or disorder.
diaphragm (DY-uh-fram)	Large, ﬂat skeletal muscle separating the thoracic and abdominopelvic cavities; serves as the primary muscle of inspiration.
diaphysis (dy-AF-eh-sis)	Shaft of a long bone.
diarthrosis (dy-ahr-THRO-sis)	Freely movable joint; also known as a synovial joint.
diastole (dy-AS-to-lee)	Relaxation state in which the chambers of the heart dilate as they ﬁll with blood.
diencephalon (dy-en-SEF-ah-lon)	Middle portion of the brain between the cerebrum and brain stem consisting of the thalamus, hypothalamus, and pineal gland.
differentiation (dif-er-en-shee-AY-shun)	Ability of cells to adapt and specialize their functions and create a wide variety of cell types.
diffusion (dih-FYU-zhun)	Cellular passive transport mechanism in which substances move according to a concentration gradient; movement from an area of higher concentration to one of lower concentration.
digestion (dy-JES-chun)	Process of breaking down food into smaller components that the body can absorb and assimilate.
digestive system (dy-JES-tiv)	Body system that ingests food, converts it to a form the body can use, absorbs nutrients into circulation, and eliminates solid wastes.
digital (DIJ-ih-tal)	Pertaining to the ﬁngers or toes.
direct phosphorylation (fahs-for-ah-LAY-shun)	Method of energy production in which a phosphate group is broken oﬀ creatine phosphate and added to adenosine diphosphate (ADP) to create adenosine triphosphate (ATP).
disc	Fibrocartilage pad between vertebrae and the bones of other cartilaginous joints (alternate spelling: disk ).
distal (DIH-stahl)	In extremities, farther from the attachment point to the body.
divergence (dy-VER-jens)	Neural circuit in which the axon of one neuron branches out to make synaptic connections with several other neurons.
dorsal (DOR-suhl)	Back; also known as posterior .
dorsiﬂexion (dor-sih-FLEK-shun)	Movement at the ankle in which the dorsum of the foot is pulled upward toward the knee.
dual innervation (in-er-VAY-shun)	Referring to glands and organs that are functionally connected with both sympathetic and parasympathetic motor pathways.
duodenum (doo-AH-den-um)	Initial segment of the small intestine.
dura mater (DER-ah MAH-ter)	Outermost layer of the meninges, made of tough, ﬁbrous connective tissue.
dynamic edema (eh-DEE-muh)	Edema related to cardiovascular dysfunctions; caused by increased capillary ﬁltration or poor venous and/or lymphatic return.
eccentric contraction (ee-SEN-trik)	Isotonic muscle contraction in which the muscle lengthens and the insertion moves away from the origin.
eccrine glands (EK-krin)	Sweat glands.
ectoderm (EK-to-derm)	Outer embryonic layer that diﬀerentiates to form the epidermis, nervous tissue, and sense organs.
edema (eh-DEE-muh)	Accumulation of excess ﬂuid in the interstitium.
edema uptake (eh-DEE-muh)	Movement of excess interstitial ﬂuid (edema) into lymphatic capillaries; ﬂuid uptake in the case of edema.
effector (ee-FEK-tor)	Target cell, tissue, or organ that responds to a speciﬁc stimulus, such as a motor command from the central nervous system.
efferent (EE-fair-rent)	Conducting away from a center; outﬂowing.
egg	Female sex cell before fertilization; also known as an ovum .
ejaculation (ee-jak-yu-LAY-shun)	Forceful ejection of sperm from the penis.
ejaculatory duct (ee-JAK-yu-luh-tor-ee)	Tube between the vas deferens and urethra.
elastic (ee-LAS-tik)	Having the ability to return to an original shape after being stretched.
elastic ﬁbers (ee-LAS-tik)	Thin, stretchy connective tissue ﬁbers made of the protein elastin.
element	Substance formed when like atoms bond to form a molecule.
elimination	In general, the process of expelling or removing something; excreting waste from the body.
llipsoid joint (eh-LIP-soyd)	Type of synovial joint characterized by two oval-shaped articular surfaces that ﬁt into each other, one convex and one concave; allows ﬂexion, extension, abduction, and adduction; see condyloid joint .
embolus (EM-bo-lus)	Traveling mass of undissolved material in a blood vessel; can be a foreign object or made up of tissue fragments, bacteria, or gas.
embryo (EM-bree-oh)	Developing human oﬀspring from week 3 through week 8 of gestation.
emulsiﬁcation (ee-muhl-sih-ﬁh-KAY-shun)	In general, the process of suspending small globules (droplets) of one liquid in a second liquid; in digestion, the breakdown of large fat globules into smaller, evenly distributed particles.
end feel	Quality of resistance sensed at the end of a normal range of motion when the joint creates resistance to stop movement; can be assessed during passive range of motion (PROM).
endocardium (en-do-KAR-dee-um)	Thin, smooth inner layer of the heart that consists of epithelium.
endocrine gland (EN-duh-krin)	Ductless gland that secretes hormones into the blood.
endocrine system (EN-duh-krin)	Body system composed of glands that secrete hormones; works with the nervous system for communication, coordination, and control of all other body systems.
endoderm (EN-do-derm)	Innermost embryonic layer that diﬀerentiates into the epithelial linings of organs and glands.
endometrium (en-do-MEE-tree-um)	Inner lining of the uterus that thickens and sloughs oﬀ with each menstrual cycle.
endomysium (en-do-MY-see-um)	Fine connective tissue layer surrounding a muscle ﬁber.
endoneurium (en-do-NUR-ee-um)	Connective tissue covering of an individual nerve ﬁber within a nerve.
endoplasmic reticulum (ER) (en-do-PLAZ-mik reh-TIK- yu-lum)	Cell organelle that creates pathways that allow for intracellular movement of substances; can be rough (with ribosomes) or smooth (without ribosomes).
endosteum (en-DAHS-tee-um)	Layer of cells lining the medullary cavity.
enteric nervous system (ENS) (en-TAIR-ik)	Complex neuronal network that controls the secretions and smooth muscle contractions of the digestive tract.
enzyme (EN-zime)	Protein that functions as a catalyst for biochemical reactions in the body, speeding up the breakdown and synthesis of various substances.
epicardium (eh-pih-KAR-dee-um)	Outer layer of the heart; visceral pericardium.
epicondyle (ep-ih-KAHN-dile)	Bone projection just superior to the condyle of certain bones.
epidermis (eh-pih-DERM-is)	Superﬁcial stratiﬁed epithelial tissue layer of the skin.
epididymis (eh-pih-DIH-duh-mus)	Narrow, coiled tube in the spermatic duct system located along the posterior side of the testes; the location where sperm develop their motility and ability to fertilize eggs.
epiglottis (eh-pih-GLAH-tis)	Small cartilage ﬂap at the entrance to the larynx that prevents food and liquids from entering the lower respiratory tract during swallowing.
epimysium (eh-pih-MY-see-um)	Fibrous connective tissue layer surrounding an entire muscle.
epineurium (eh-pih-NUR-ee-um)	Outermost connective tissue covering of a nerve.
epiphyseal plate (eh-PIF-eh-see-al)	Growth plate of bones.
epiphysis (eh-PIF-eh-sis)	End portion of a long bone.
epithelial tissue (eh-pih-THEE-lee-al)	One of the four basic tissue types; functions to line, cover, secrete, and protect; also known as the epithelium .
epithelium (eh-pih-THEE-lee-um)	One of the four basic tissue types of the body; functions to line, cover, secrete, and protect; also known as epithelial tissue .
erection (ee-REK-shun)	Condition in which the penis is stiﬀ, enlarged, and engorged.
erythema (air-uh-THEE-mee-ah)	Reddened appearance of the skin.
erythrocyte (eh-RITH-ro-site)	Formed element of blood responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body; also known as a red blood cell.
esophageal sphincter (eh-sahf-eh-JEE-al SFINGK-ter)	Smooth muscle ring at the lower end of the esophagus that controls the ﬂow of food into the stomach and prevents its contents from pushing back into the esophagus; also called the cardiac sphincter.
esophagus (eh-SOF-ah-gus)	The muscular tube just posterior to the trachea that connects the pharynx (throat) with the stomach and serves as a passageway for food.
estrogen (ES-tro-jen)	Female sex hormone that stimulates the development of the reproductive organs and secondary sex characteristics; during the menstrual cycle, it promotes an environment suitable for fertilization and implantation of an egg and for sustaining an embryo.
etiology (ee-tee-AHL-o-jee)	The cause of a disease; factors involved in the development of a disease.
excitable	Having the ability to react to a stimulus; in muscle tissue, the ability to respond quickly to stimulus from nerve impulses.
exhalation (eks-hah-LAY-shun)	Expelling air from the lungs; also known as expiration .
exocrine gland (EKS-o-krin)	Gland that secretes into a duct carrying the secretion to a speciﬁc location (e.g., sweat, salivary, and sebaceous glands).
exocytosis (eks-o-sy-TO-sis)	Active transport mechanism in which a substance is carried from inside to outside the cell membrane.
expiration (eks-pih-RAY-shun)	Expelling air from the lungs; also known as exhalation .
extensible (eks-TEN-sih-bal)	Having the ability to stretch.
extension (eks-TEN-shun)	Posterior movement of a body part in the sagittal plane; increases the anterior angle between two bones (exception: knee joint).
external respiration (eks-TER-nal res-pih-RAY-shun)	Gas exchange between the air in the alveoli of the lungs and the bloodstream.
extracellular ﬂuid (eks-trah-SEL-yu-lar)	Fluid present outside of cells.
extrafusal ﬁber (eks-trah-FYU-zahl)	Skeletal muscle ﬁber.
facet (FAS-et)	Small, smooth, ﬂat area on a bone.
facilitated diffusion (fah-SIL-ah-tay-ted dih-FYU-zhun)	Passive transport mechanism in which special carrier molecules in the cell membrane assist in moving speciﬁc substances across the plasma membrane.
fallopian tube (fah-LO-pee-un)	One of two short muscular tubes that carry eggs from the ovary to the uterus; also known as oviduct .
fascia (FASH-ah)	Multiple layers of disorganized ﬁbrous connective tissue that surround and invest all structures of the body down to the cellular level.
fascial band (FASH-al)	One of seven ﬂattened horizontal straps of superﬁcial fascia.
fascial plane (FASH-al)	One of four horizontal deep fascial components inside the body cavities.
fascial system (FASH-al)	Unifying structural and functional system that includes all ﬁbrous connective tissues.
fascial tone (FASH-al)	Low-grade tension created by smooth muscle cells within the fascia independent of motor tone in surrounding skeletal muscles; regulated by the autonomic nervous system.
fascicle (FAS-ih-kal)	Bundle of muscle or nerve ﬁbers.
fatty acid	Molecular component of triglycerides.
feedback system	Part of the body’s homeostatic process in which a stimulus occurs and the body responds.
femoral (FEHM-or-al)	Pertaining to the thigh.
fertilization (fer-tih-luh-ZAY-shun)	Joining of genetic material from one sperm and one egg; also known as conception .
fetus (FEE-tus)	Developing human oﬀspring from week 9 until birth.
fever	Elevated core body temperature.
ﬁbroblast (FY-bro-blast)	Specialized connective tissue cell that synthesizes certain protein molecules to create connective tissue ﬁbers.
ﬁbrocartilage (fy-bro-KAR-tih-lij)	Dense ﬁbrous connective tissue pad found between the vertebrae and at the pubic symphysis.
ﬁbrous joint (FY-brus)	Type of joint in which the bone ends are held together with ﬁbrous connective tissue; most but not all ﬁbrous joints are also synarthrotic.
ﬁbular (FIB-yu-lar)	Pertaining to the lateral side of the lower leg.
ﬁltration (ﬁl-TRAY-shun)	In general, the process of passing liquid through a ﬁlter; a cellular passive transport mechanism in which substances move according to a pressure gradient, from an area of higher to lower pressure.
ﬁssure (FISH-ur)	Deep furrow or cleft.
ﬁxator (FIK-say-tor)	Muscle that ﬁxes or stabilizes the origin end of a prime mover so that the movement is more eﬃcient; also known as a stabilizer .
ﬂexion (FLEK-shun)	Anterior movement of a body part in the sagittal plane; decreases the anterior angle between two bones (exception: knee joint).
ﬂuid uptake	Movement of interstitial ﬂuid into lymphatic capillaries.
follicle (FAH-lih-kal)	Small sac at the base of a hair shaft that produces new keratinocytes; also the specialized ring of cells surrounding an ovum.
follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) (FAH-lih-kal)	Gonadotropin released by the anterior pituitary that stimulates estrogen secretion and the growth of ovarian follicles in females or the formation of sperm in the male testis.
foramen (for-AY-men)	Opening or hole in a bone.
formed element	Cellular component of blood, including red and white blood cells and platelets.
fossa (FAH-sah)	Saucer-like depression in a bone.
fovea (FO-vee-ah)	Small pit or depression in a bone.
free nerve ending	Superﬁcial cutaneous receptor that is sensitive to light touch, pressure, temperature, and tissue damage (pain).
frontal (FRUN-tal)	Pertaining to the forehead or relating to the frontal plane.
frontal plane (FRUN-tal)	Vertical plane that divides the body or a body part into anterior and posterior sections; coronal plane .
fulcrum (FUL-krum)	The point of movement in a system of levers.
fundus (FUN-duhs)	Upper portion of an organ such as the stomach or uterus.
gallbladder (GAHL-blad-er)	Small pear-shaped sac under the right lobe of the liver that concentrates and stores bile secreted by the liver until it is needed for digestion.
gamete (GAM-meet)	Male or female sex cell; sperm or egg (ovum).
gamma gain (GAM-mah)	Pretensioning of the muscle spindle that increases its sensitivity to rapid lengthening; also called gamma loading .
gamma loop (GAM-mah)	Neuronal reﬂex loop that regulates the sensitivity of the muscle spindle; created by a gamma sensory neuron originating at the ends of the muscle spindle and a gamma motor neuron that stimulates the intrafusal muscle ﬁber.
ganglion (GANG-glee-on)	Collection of cell bodies and dendrites found outside the central nervous system (plural: ganglia).
gastrointestinal (GI) tract (gas-tro-in-TES-tih-nal)	Pathway that transports food and liquids, beginning at the mouth and including the pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, and anus.
gate control theory	A now discredited pain theory proposed by Melzack and Wall in 1965. gel Semisolid material.
gene (JEEN)	Portion of the DNA molecule that corresponds to a speciﬁc inherited trait or characteristic.
general receptor	Type of sensory receptor that is sensitive to changes in the environment, located throughout the tissues of the body.
general sense	Sensory information generated by cutaneous and other general sense receptors; includes touch, temperature, pain, pressure, vibration, movement, and body position.
genitalia (jen-ih-TAY-lee-ah)	External sexual organs (penis and vulva).
gestation (jeh-STAY-shun)	Period of fetal development from conception until birth; pregnancy. gland Organ that secretes speciﬁc chemicals (enzymes or hormones) necessary for body processes.
glial cell (GLEE-uhl)	Type of cell of the nervous system that functions to support and protect neurons; also known as neuroglia .
gliding joint	Type of synovial joint with smooth, ﬂat articular surfaces (facets) that slide or glide across one another; normally found between short bones.
glottis (GLAH-tis)	Space between the vocal cords (folds) of the larynx.
glucagon (GLOO-kah-gahn)	Hormone secreted by the alpha islet cells of the pancreas; increases blood glucose levels.
glucocorticoid (gloo-ko-KOR-tih-koyd)	Any of a group of steroid hormones secreted by the middle layer of the adrenal cortex; involved in metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
glucose (GLOO-kose)	Simple sugar.
gluteal (GLOO-tee-ahl)	Pertaining to the buttocks.
glycerol (GLIH-ser-ahl)	Molecular component of triglycerides.
glycocalyx (gly-ko-KAY-liks)	Sticky layer of sugar and protein strands that covers some cells. glycogen (GLY-ko-jen)
glycolysis (gly-KAH-lih-sis)	Anaerobic metabolic process in which glucose is broken down and converted into pyruvic acid to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP).
Golgi apparatus (GOAL-jee ap-ah-RAT-us)	Cellular organelle that processes and packages proteins and lipids.
Golgi tendon organ (GTO) (GOAL-jee)	Proprioceptor that senses tension and is found in skeletal muscle.
gonad (GO-nad)	Male or female sex gland that produces and stores the sex cells; the testes in males and the ovaries in females.
graded response	Stimulating the appropriate number of motor units based on sensory input to control the force of muscle contraction; motor unit recruitment.
granulation tissue (gran-yu-LAY-shun)	Thin thread-like ﬁbers formed by ﬁbroblasts across a hematoma.
gray matter	Areas of the brain or spinal cord made primarily of cell bodies and dendrites of neurons rather than myelinated axons; has a grayish color.
greater omentum (o-MEN-tum)	Large fatty extension of the peritoneum.
ground substance	Fluid component of connective tissues.
growth hormone (GH)	Most abundant hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary; stimulates and regulates growth in all tissue and plays an important role in some aspects of metabolism; also called somatotropin .
gustatory (GUS-tah-tor-ee)	Pertaining to taste.
gyrus (JY-rus)	Fold or convolution of the cerebrum (plural: gyri).
hair root plexus (PLEKS-us)	Deep cutaneous receptor that wraps around the hair follicle and is sensitive to movement of the exposed hair shaft. hair shaft Exposed portion of a hair that projects above the surface of the skin.
haversian canal (hah-VER-zhun)	Central canal of the haversian system in compact bone through which blood and lymph vessels and nerves pass.
haversian system (hah-VER-zhun)	Basic structural unit of compact bone, made up of the haversian canal and its concentric rings of lamellae; also known as an osteon.
helper T cell	Specialized lymphocyte that boosts the body’s speciﬁc immune response.
hematoma (hee-mah-TO-mah)	Localized collection of blood and other ﬂuids in tissue.
hematopoiesis (heh-mat-o-po-EE-sis)	Blood cell production in the red bone marrow; also called hemopoiesis.
hemoglobin (HEE-muh-glo-bun)	Iron-containing protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen from the lungs to the tissues and gives red blood cells their color.
hemorrhage (HEM-or-ij)	Active bleeding.
hemostasis (hee-mo-STAY-sis)	Physiologic process of stopping vascular bleeding.
hepatic duct (heh-PAT-ik)	One of two tubes (right or left) within the liver that carry bile to the common hepatic duct.
hepatic ﬂexure (heh-PAT-ik FLEK-shur)	Point of intersection in the large intestine between the ascending and transverse colons.
hepatocyte (heh-PAT-o-site)	Liver cell.
hilum (HY-lum)	Indentation or opening through which ducts, nerves, or blood vessels pass in a gland or organ; in the kidney, the opening through which the ureters, blood vessels, and nerves pass.
hinge joint	Type of synovial joint in which the rounded end of one bone articulates with a groove or trough in another bone; allows ﬂexion and extension only.
histamine (HIS-tah-meen)	Chemical released in damaged tissue, allergic, or inﬂammatory responses. Causes vasodilation and increased capillary permeability.
histology (hist-AHL-o-jee)	Study of tissues.
holistic approach (ho-LIS-tik)	Health and wellness concept guided by the principle that the physical body, cognitive processes (mind), and emotional and spiritual aspects are inseparable parts of a whole and integrated person.
homeostasis (ho-mee-o-STAY-sis)	State of internal stability or balance in the body.
horizontal abduction (hor-ih-ZAHN-tal ab-DUK-shun)	Movement away from the midline within the transverse plane.
horizontal adduction (hor-ih-ZAHN-tal ad-DUK-shun)	Movement toward the midline within the transverse plane.
hormone (HOR-mone)	Specialized chemical messenger released by endocrine glands into the blood.
horn	Speciﬁc region of the gray matter of the spinal cord.
HPA axis	Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis; controls reactions to stress and other body processes.
hyaline cartilage (HY-ah-lin)	Smooth connective tissue found on the articular surface of bones.
hydrostatic pressure (hy-dro-STAT-ik)	Force caused by ﬂuid pushing against a wall or membrane; ﬂuid pressure.
hyperemia (hy-per-EE-mee-uh)	Local increase in blood volume or ﬂow.
hypertension (hy-per-TEN-shun	High arterial blood pressure.
hypertonicity (hy-per-to-NIS-ih-tee)	Excessive muscle tension.
hypertrophy (hy-PER-troh-fee)	Increase in the size or diameter of tissues or organs.
hypodermis (hy-po-DERM-is)	Fat and areolar connective tissue that lies between the dermis and underlying tissues and organs; also known as the subcutaneous layer or superﬁcial fascia .
hypothalamus (hy-po-THAL-uh-mus)	Anterior medial portion of the diencephalon that controls the autonomic nervous system and is the primary link to the endocrine system. idiopathic (ih-dee-o-PATH-ik)
ileum (IL-lee-um)	Lowest portion of the small intestine.
immunity (ih-MYU-nuh-tee)	Protection from or resistance to disease.
immunoglobulin (ih-myu-no-GLAH-byu-lin)	Plasma protein released by plasma B cells that can bind with an antigen to neutralize or kill it; also known as an antibody .
implantation (im-plan-TAY-shun)	Process by which the blastocyst burrows into the uterine lining.
indication (in-dih-KAY-shun)	Sign or circumstance that provides a reason to proceed with a speciﬁc treatment because a positive eﬀect is likely.
inert tissue (in-NERT)	Noncontractile tissues, including ligaments, joint capsules, and cartilage.
inferior (in-FEER-ee-yor)	Below; closer to feet; caudal.
inﬂammation (in-ﬂah-MAY-shun)	Defensive response that helps to stabilize damaged tissue and prepare it for repair.
inﬂammatory stage (in-FLAM-ah-tor-ee)	First phase of the healing process; includes hemorrhage, inﬂammation, secondary edema formation, spasm, and hematoma organization; also known as the acute stage .
ingestion (in-JES-chun)	The act of eating or taking in food or liquids.
inguinal (ING-gwih-nal)	Pertaining to the groin.
inhalation (in-hah-LAY-shun)	Drawing air into the lungs; also known as inspiration .
inhibiting hormones	Group of hormones synthesized and released by the hypothalamus that inhibit hormone releases from the anterior pituitary gland.
innate immune defense	Any of a group of general body defenses that are not directed at a particular pathogen; also known as nonspeciﬁc immune defense .
innervate (IN-er-vate)	To supply nerves to an organ or body part; to stimulate an organ or body part via nerve impulses.
inorganic compound (in-or-GAN-ik)	Compound made of molecules that do not contain carbon atoms.
insertion (in-SIR-shun)	Moving end of a muscle attachment. inspiration (in-spuh-RAY-shun) Drawing air into the lungs; also known as inhalation .
insulin (IN-suh-lun)	Hormone released by the beta cells in the pancreatic islets; causes a decrease in blood glucose levels.
integral membrane proteins (IMPs)	Groups of specialized protein molecules in the plasma membrane of cells that monitor the internal and external environments, shuttle nutrients and wastes across the membrane, and direct cellular responses.
integration (in-teh-GRAY-shun)	Combining two or more things together; in the nervous system it refers to the central nervous system’s capacity to process sensory information and direct motor responses.
integumentary system (in-teg-yu-MEN-teh-ree)	Body system made up of the skin and its accessory organs: hair, nails, oil glands, and sweat glands.
intercalated discs (in-TER-kah-lay-ted)	Small connections between cardiac muscle cells made by thickened areas in the sarcoplasmic reticulum.
interferon (in-ter-FEER-on)	Cytokine that inhibits the spread of viral infection from infected to uninfected body cells.
internal respiration (res-pih-RAY-shun)	Gas exchange between the bloodstream and tissues of the body.
interoception (in-ter-o-SEP-shun)	The sense of the internal state of the body.
interstitial ﬂuid (in-ter-STIH-shal)	Fluid between cells in tissues that is not part of the blood or lymph.
interstitial ﬂuid pressure (IFP) (in-ter-STIH-shal)	Force created by ﬂuid in the interstitial space pressing in against the wall of the capillary.
interstitial myofascial tissue receptors (in-ter- STIH-shul my-o-FASH-al)	Specialized free nerve endings found within fascia that cause autonomic changes when stimulated.
intrafusal (in-trah-FYU-zahl)	Specialized striated muscle ﬁber within a muscle spindle.
inverse stretch reﬂex	Reﬂex mediated by the Golgi tendon organs that inhibits muscle contraction, causing a stretched or contracted muscle to relax when the tension level reaches a certain point; opposite of the stretch reﬂex.
ion (I-on)	Charged particle of matter.
ion pump	Active transport mechanism that moves charged particles across the plasma membrane; movement against the concentration gradient.
ipsilateral (ip-sih-LAT-er-al)	On the same side of the median.
ischemia (ih-SKEE-mee-ah)	Local decrease in blood volume or ﬂow.
islets of Langerhans (Y-lets uhv LAHNG-er-hahnz)	Group of specialized hormone-producing cells scattered throughout the pancreas that produce glucagon and insulin; also known as pancreatic islets .
isometric contraction (y-soh-MEH-trik)	Type of muscle contraction that increases tension but does not create movement.
isotonic contraction (y-soh-TAH-nik)	Type of muscle contraction that creates movement.
jejunum (jeh-JOO-num)	Central portion of the small intestine.
joint	The point at which two or more bones meet; articulation .
joint capsule	Fibrous connective tissue sleeve around the bone ends in synovial joints.
joint cavity	The space between the bones of an articulation and inside the joint capsule.
joint receptor	Receptor in the joint capsule and ligaments that monitors the pressure, tension, and movement of a joint.
eratin (KAIR-ah-tin)	Substance secreted by keratinocytes of epidermis to toughen the outer layer and make it water resistant.
keratinocyte (kair-ah-TIN-o-site)	Type of cell in the outer layer of epidermis that secretes keratin.
kidney (KID-nee)	One of two bean-shaped organs located in the lumbar region; responsible for cleansing the blood and forming urine.
kinesthesia (kin-eh-STEE-zhuh)	The sense and awareness of movement.
kinetic chain (kin-EH-tik)	Series of muscles engaged to create a complex movement.
Krebs cycle	Aerobic metabolic process in which pyruvic acid is broken down and converted into carbon dioxide and water, producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and heat; also called the citric acid cycle .
kyphotic curve (ky-FAH-tik	Convex curve of the thoracic and sacral spine (as seen in a sagittal view).
labia (LAY-bee-uh)	Lateral tissue folds that surround the vaginal and urethral openings.
labor	Series of actions that push an infant through the vagina and result in expulsion (birth).
labrum (LAY-brum)	Cup-shaped ﬁbrocartilage ring that lines and stabilizes a ball-and-socket joint.
lacteal (LAK-tee-al)	Specialized lymphatic capillary inside the microvilli of the small intestine that absorbs fats.
lactic acid (LAK-tik)	Acid produced in the body during the anaerobic metabolism of glucose, as occurs in muscle tissue during exercise.
lacuna (lah-KOO-nah)	Small cavity or chamber that houses an osteocyte in mature bone tissue or a chondrocyte in cartilage.
lamella (lah-MEL-ah)	Concentric bony plate that surrounds the central canal (haversian canal) in an osteon (plural: lamellae).
Langerhans cells (LAHNG-er-hahnz)	Specialized immune cells found in the spiny layer of the epidermis.
large intestine	Portion of the intestine that extends from the ileum to the anus and includes the cecum, colon, rectum, and anal canal.
larynx (LAIR-inks)	Part of the respiratory tract between the pharynx and trachea that contains the vocal cords (folds); commonly called the voice box.
lateral (LAT-er-al)	Situated or extending away from the midline of the body (to the side). length–strength ratio
lesion (LEE-zhun)	Localized pathologic change in an organ or tissue, such as a wound, sore, rash, ulcer, tumor, boil, or other abnormal tissue change.
lesser omentum (o-MEN-tum)	Extension of the greater omentum between the stomach and liver.
leukocyte (LOO-ko-site)	Formed element of blood that plays a vital role in the body’s healing and immune responses; includes neutrophils, basophils, eosinophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes; also known as a white blood cell .
ligament (LIG-ah-ment)	Fibrous connective tissue that connects bone to bone in synovial joints.
ligand (LIG-und)	Peptide molecule that binds to receptor proteins in the plasma membrane of target cells to stimulate cellular activity.
limbic system (LIM-bik)	Group of brain structures involved in processing memory and emotion and controlling unconscious aspects of behavior related to survival; called the “emotional brain.”
lipid (LIP-id)	An organic compound made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms that breaks down to smaller usable fatty acid and glycerol molecules; fat.
lipid-soluble hormone (LIP-id SAHL-yu-bal)	Hormone transported in blood via special carrier molecules, which then passes easily into the target cell to directly alter its metabolic activity; no second messenger is involved.
lymphangia (lim-FAN-jee-ah)	Primary lymphatic vessels that receive lymph from the pre-collectors and carry it to lymph node beds or lymphatic trunks; also called collectors .
lymphatic system (lim-FAT-ik)	Body system consisting of the lymph vessels and lymphoid tissue; involved in immunity, nutrient absorption, and ﬂuid return.
lymphatic terminus (lim-FAT-ik TER-mih-nus)	Junction between the lymphatic ducts and the subclavian veins; also known as the angulus venosus .
lymphatic trunk (lim-FAT-ik)	Large lymphatic vessel that connects lymph collectors from a speciﬁc body region to a deep lymphatic duct.
lymphedema (lim-feh-DEE-muh)	Edema caused by dysfunction or failure of the lymphatic system; a primary or secondary condition.
lymphocyte (LIM-fo-site)	Specialized white blood cell that carries out speciﬁc immune responses.
lymphotome (LIM-fah-tome)	Speciﬁc lymphatic drainage region that carries lymph through its network of vessels into a designated catchment.
lysosome (LY-so-zome)	Small sac ﬁlled with digestive enzymes that break down a variety of molecules within the cell.
macrophage (MAK-ro-fayj)	Large phagocyte; literally “big eater.”
mammary glands (MAM-ah-ree)	Breasts.
manual	Pertaining to the hand; an action performed by the hands.
manual therapy	Patterned and purposeful application of touch and/or movement with therapeutic intent.
margination (mar-jih-NAY-shun)	Movement of phagocytes and ﬁbroblasts to the periphery of an area of inﬂammation; occurs during the acute stage of the healing process.
marrow (MAIR-oh)	Soft, gelatinous material found in the spaces of spongy bone (red marrow) and ﬁlling the medullary cavity (yellow marrow).
mast cells	Specialized connective tissue cells that contain histamine and heparin.
mastication (mas-tih-KAY-shun)	Process of chewing.
matrix (MAY-triks)	Combination of ﬁbers and ground substance in connective tissue.
maturation stage	(match-er-AY-shun) Final phase of the healing process involving the ﬁnal thickening and alignment of scar tissue; also called the remodeling stage .
meatus (mee-AY-tus)	Short channel or canal in a bone.
mechanoreceptor (meh-kan-o-ree-SEP-tor)	Sensory receptor sensitive to mechanical changes in the environment such as touch, pressure, movement, and vibration.
medial (MEE-dee-al)	Closer to or toward the midline of the body.
mediastinum (mee-dee-AS-tih-num)	Central region in the thoracic cavity between the lungs which contains the heart.
medulla oblongata (meh-DU-lah ah-blawng-GAH-tuh)	Most inferior portion of the brain stem; continuous with the spinal cord.
medullary cavity (MED-yu-lair-ee)	Hollow channel in the diaphysis of a long bone.
meiosis (my-O-sis)	Cellular division of sex cells.
Meissner’s corpuscle (MYZ-nerz KOR-puh-sal)	Superﬁcial cutaneous receptor that is sensitive to vibration and light touch.
melanin (MEL-ah-nin)	Dark pigment that determines skin and hair color.
melanocyte (muh-LAN-o-site)	Specialized cell of the epidermis that produces melanin.
melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) (muh-LAN- o-site)	Hormone released by the anterior pituitary that aﬀects skin pigmentation.
melanoma (mel-ah-NO-mah)	A type of skin cancer caused by mutations in melanocytes; can be aggressive and fatal.
melatonin (mel-ah-TO-nin)	Hormone secreted by the pineal gland that plays a role in regulating the body’s circadian rhythm (sleep-wake cycle).
membrane	Thin sheet of at least two layers of tissue that covers a surface, lines a cavity, or separates or connects structures or organs.
memory cell	Specialized B or T cell produced during a speciﬁc immune response that “remembers” the initial exposure to a pathogen; speciﬁc types are called memory B cells or memory T cells.
meninges (meh-NIN-jeez)	Membranous connective tissue coverings of the brain and spinal cord.
meniscus (meh-NIS-kus)	Fibrocartilage pad in the knee joint.
Merkel disc (MER-kuhl)	Superﬁcial cutaneous receptor that is sensitive to light touch.
mesentery (MEZ-en-tair-ee)	Double fold of the peritoneum that attaches the small intestine to the posterior side of the abdominal cavity.
mesoderm (MEZ-o-derm)	Middle embryonic layer that diﬀerentiates into bone, blood, muscle tissue, and certain epithelial tissues in the urinary and endocrine systems.
metabolic rate (meh-tah-BAH-lik)	The speed of cellular processes, measured as the amount of heat produced by the body.
metabolism (meh-TAB-o-lizm)	The sum of all biochemical reactions that occur within a cell or organism that are necessary to maintain life; includes building up molecules (anabolism) and breaking down molecules (catabolism).
metaphysis (meh-TAF-uh-sis)	In a long bone, the ﬂared area where the diaphysis joins the epiphysis.
microbe (MY-krobe)	Minute organism; includes many types of pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses.
microvilli (my-kro-VIH-ly)	Microscopic projections from the plasma membrane of certain cells that increase the surface area for absorption.
micturition (mik-chur-RIH-shun)	Passing urine out of the urethra; also known as urination . midbrain Uppermost portion of the brain stem.
mineral (MIN-eh-rahl)	Inorganic micronutrient required for maintaining tissues such as bone and blood and homeostatic balances including pH, ﬂuid, and energy balance.
mineralocorticoid (min-eh-rahl-o-KOR-tih-koyd)	Any of a group of hormones released by the outer layer of the adrenal cortex; aldosterone is the most important.
mitochondria (my-to-KAHN-dree-ah)	Cellular organelles responsible for the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) (singular: mitochondrion).
mitosis (my-TO-sis)	Process of cell division in which the nucleus divides to produce two nuclei, each containing the same chromosome and DNA content as the original cell.
mitral valve (MY-truhl)	Heart valve located between the left atrium and ventricle; also known as the bicuspid valve .
modulation (mahj-yu-LAY-shun)	Modifying of a nerve impulse via inhibitory or excitatory chemicals.
molecule (MAH-leh-kyul)	Particle formed by the bonding of two or more atoms.
motility (mo-TIL-ih-tee)	Ability to move spontaneously.
motor end plate	Region of the neuromuscular junction located on a muscle ﬁber that is sensitive to neurotransmitters released from the knobs of a motor neuron.
motor neuron	Nerve cell that transmits impulses from the central nervous system to muscular or glandular tissue.
motor tone	Consistent state of low-grade tension generated through tonic contractions; palpated as ﬁrmness in the muscle.
motor unit	A motor neuron and the muscle ﬁbers it innervates.
motor unit recruitment	Increasing the number of motor units stimulated to increase the force of a muscle contraction; graded response.
mucosa (myu-KO-sah)	Inner mucous membrane layer, such as the innermost tissue layer of the digestive tract.
mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT)	Small masses of lymphoid tissue found in the mucous membranes of the throat (tonsils) or digestive tract (Peyer’s patches).
mucous membrane (MYU-kus)	Epithelial membrane that secretes mucus and lines cavities that open to the outside environment.
mucus (MYU-kus)	Thick, clear secretion of the mucous membrane. muscle belly Middle bulky portion of a muscle.
muscle cramp	Acute involuntary muscle contraction that can last for several minutes.
muscle fatigue	Inability of muscle to contract forcefully after prolonged activity, even when stimulated to do so.
muscle recruitment	Organizational pattern of stimulation and coactivation of muscle groups regulated by the cerebellum to produce complex coordinated movements.
muscle spasm	Involuntary muscle contraction sustained over hours, days, weeks, or months; can lead to problems such as postural adaptations, limited or painful movement, and poor circulation.
muscle spindle	Proprioceptor found in skeletal muscle that senses length and rate of change in length; consists of intrafusal ﬁbers and nerve endings.
muscle splinting	Reﬂexive contraction of muscles surrounding an injured area to help keep the area still and protected.
muscle tissue	One of four major classes of tissue in the body; has the ability to contract.
muscle tone	Natural ﬁrmness of a muscle created by its ﬂuid and connective tissue elements.
muscular system (MUS-kyu-lar)	Body system made up of muscles that move the skeleton, support and protect internal organs, and maintain posture.
muscularis (mus-kyu-LAIR-is)	Smooth muscular layer within the wall of an organ such as the digestive tract.
musculotendinous junction (mus-kyu-lo-TEN-dih-nus)	Tissue zone where muscle transitions to tendon.
myelin (MY-eh-lin)	Lipid insulating layer found around the axons of many neurons.
myocardium (my-o-KAR-dee-um)	Thick middle layer of the heart composed of cardiac muscle tissue.
myofascial train (my-o-FASH-al)	Connective tissue links between muscles, bones, and fascial membranes that provide a pathway for the mechanical communication of tension throughout the body.
myoﬁbril (my-o-FY-bril)	Small cylindrical organelle within a muscle ﬁber; made up of myoﬁlaments.
myoﬁlament (my-o-FIL-ah-ment)	Thin protein strand found within a muscle cell; made of actin or myosin.
myoglobin (my-o-GLO-bin)	Oxygen-transporting protein of muscle; provides an immediate source of oxygen to the cell when needed.
myosin (MY-oh-sin)	Thick protein myoﬁlaments in a muscle sarcomere.
nares (NAIR-eez)	Nostrils.
nasal (NAY-zuhl)	Pertaining to the nose.
nasal cavity (NAY-zuhl KAV-ih-tee)	Space on either side of the nasal septum lined with a mucous membrane; beginning of the respiratory tract.
nasal septum (NAY-zuhl SEP-tum)	Cartilage and bony divider that separates the nasal cavity.
natural killer (NK) cell	Lymphocyte found in blood; destroys pathogens.
naturally acquired immunity	Disease resistance obtained without medical intervention.
negative feedback	Most common homeostatic control mechanism, in which the eﬀector response counteracts the original stimulus; method by which hormone levels are regulated.
nephron (NEF-ron)	Microscopic functional unit of the kidney.
nerve	Bundle of nerve ﬁbers in the peripheral nervous system.
nerve ﬁber	Process extending from the cell body of a neuron, such as a dendrite or axon.
nerve impulse	Electrochemical signal that travels along a neuron; also known as an action potential .
nerve root	Either the posterior (dorsal) aﬀerent sensory root or the anterior (ventral) eﬀerent motor root of a spinal nerve.
nervous system (NER-vus)	Body system made up of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves; works with the endocrine system for communication, coordination, and control of all other body systems.
nervous tissue (NER-vus)	One of four major classes of tissue in the body; found in the nervous system only.
neurilemma (nur-ih-LEM-ah)	Plasma membrane of a Schwann cell (alternate spelling: neurolemma).
neuroadaptation (nur-o-ad-dap-TAY-shun)	Compensations made by the brain in response to the long- term or repetitive presence of any chemical.
neurofascial loops (nur-o-FASH-al)	Reﬂexive neuronal pathways connecting the autonomic nervous system to smooth muscle cells in the fascia.
neuroglia (NUR-o-GLEE-uh)	Cell of the nervous system that supports and protects neurons; also known as glial cell (plural: neuroglia).
neuromuscular junction (nur-o-MUS-kyu-lar)	Structural interface between a motor neuron and muscle ﬁbers of a motor unit.
neuromuscular reﬂex (nur-o-MUS-kyu-lar)	Reﬂex that controls skeletal muscle contraction; includes simple reﬂex arcs as well as more complex neuronal pathways involving multiple interneurons in the spinal cord and brain.
neuron (NUR-on)	Nerve cell specialized to conduct nerve impulses; consists of a cell body, dendrites, and an axon.
neuronal pathway (nur-RON-al)	The speciﬁc route an action potential travels between neurons. neuronal pool (nur-RON-al)
nociceptor (no-see-SEP-tor)	Free nerve ending that is sensitive to chemical, thermal, or mechanical damage to tissue; pain receptor.
node of Ranvier (RAHN-vee-ay)	Gap between Schwann cells along a myelinated axon where depolarization and repolarization can occur.
nodule (NAH-jool)	Small node. nonspeciﬁc immune defense Any of a group of general body defenses that are not directed at a particular pathogen; also known as innate immune defense . noradrenaline (nor-ah-DREN-ah-lin)
nucleic acids (nu-KLEE-ik)	Organic molecules made of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and phosphorous atoms; primary structural component of DNA and RNA molecules.
nucleus (NOO-klee-us)	Large cellular organelle that contains DNA.
obligatory load (uh-BLIG-ah-tor-ee)	Blood capillary ﬁltrate that must be picked up and returned to cardiovascular circulation via the lymphatic system.
occipital (ahk-SIP-ih-tal)	Pertaining to the back of the head; posterior region of the skull.
olecranal (o-lek-RAH-nal)	Pertaining to the posterior elbow (the point of the elbow).
olfaction (ohl-FAK-shun)	Sense of smell; perceiving and distinguishing odors.
oncotic pressure (on-KAH-tik)	Osmotic pressure induced by proteins in blood and interstitial ﬂuid.
oral (OR-uhl)	Pertaining to the mouth.
orbital (OR-bih-tal)	Pertaining to the eye.
organ (OR-guhn)	Group of tissues working together to accomplish speciﬁc tasks.
organelle (or-gah-NEL)	Diﬀerentiated structure within a cell that carries out speciﬁc functions.
osseous (AH-see-us)	Having a bony or bone-like consistency or structure.
osteoblast (AH-stee-o-blast)	Bone-building cell.
osteoclast (AH-stee-o-klast)	Bone cell that breaks down bone tissue.
osteocyte (AH-stee-o-site)	Bone cell.
osteogenic (ah-stee-o-JEN-ik)	Producing bone; derived from or composed of bone-producing tissues.
osteokinematics (ah-stee-oh-kin-neh-MAT-iks)	Gross movement that occurs between two bones and according to joint axes; includes ﬂexion, extension, abduction, adduction, rotation, and circumduction.
osteon (AHS-tee-on)	Basic structural unit of compact bone; made up of the haversian canal and its concentric rings of lamellae; also known as a haversian system.
otic (AH-tik)	Pertaining to the ear.
ovary (O-vuh-ree)	One of two female gonads located in the pelvic cavity; produces eggs (ova) and secretes hormones.
oviduct (O-vih-dukt)	One of two short muscular tubes that carry eggs from the ovary to the uterus; also known as a fallopian tube.
ovulation (ahv-yu-LAY-shun)	Expelling of an egg from the ovary.
ovum (OH-vum)	Female gamete; also known as an egg (plural: ova).
oxygen debt (AHKS-ih-jun)	Cumulative deﬁcit of oxygen that results from a period of exercise; leads to deep and rapid breathing after exertion has stopped in order to obtain more oxygen. oxytocin (ahks-ee-TO-sin)
Pacinian corpuscle	(pah-SIN-ee-un KOR-puh-sal) Deep cutaneous receptor that is sensitive to vibrations and deep pressure.
pain threshold	The amount of stimulus required to produce a pain signal.
pain tolerance	The amount of pain a person can withstand.
pallor (PAL-or)	Whitened or pale appearance; usually refers to skin or tissue coloration.
palmar (PALM-er)	Pertaining to the palm of the hand.
pancreas (PAN-kree-us)	Elongated glandular organ situated behind the stomach that secretes pancreatic juice and the hormones insulin and glucagon; classiﬁed as both an exocrine gland (digestive functions) and endocrine gland (islet cells).
pancreatic duct (pan-kree-AT-ik)	Tube that carries pancreatic juice from the pancreas to the duodenum.
pancreatic islets (pan-kree-AT-ik Y-lets)	Group of specialized hormone-producing cells scattered throughout the pancreas that produce glucagon and insulin; also known as islets of Langerhans.
papillary region (PAP-pih-lair-ee)	Superﬁcial region of the dermis that contains blood and lymph vessels and cutaneous receptors.
parallel muscle	Muscle whose ﬁbers are all the same length and in parallel arrangement.
parasympathetic (pair-ah-sim-pah-THET-ik)	Pertaining to the division of the autonomic nervous system concerned with normal functioning and conservation of body energy; the “feed-and-breed” division of the nervous system.
parathyroid gland (pair-ah-THY-royd)	One of four small nodules located on the posterior aspect of the thyroid gland; secretes parathyroid hormone (PTH).
parathyroid hormone (PTH) (pair-ah-THY-royd)	Hormone secreted by parathyroid glands to help regulate calcium blood levels; antagonist to calcitonin by increasing 2+ level of Ca in blood. paravertebral chain (pair-ah-VER-tee-bral)
parietal layer (pah-RY-ah-tal)	Pertaining to the outer layer of a serous membrane that lines a body cavity.
passive transport	Cellular transport mechanism that does not require the use of energy.
patellar (pah-TEL-ahr)	Pertaining to the anterior knee.
pathogen (PATH-o-jen)	Disease-causing agent, such as a virus, parasite, bacterium, fungus, or chemical or environmental particulate.
pathology (path-AHL-o-jee)	Study of disease.
pectoral (PEK-tor-al)	Pertaining to the chest.
pedal (PEE-duhl)	Pertaining to the foot.
pelvic (PEL-vik)	Pertaining to the hip girdle.
penis (PEE-nis)	External male organ of copulation and urination.
pennate muscle (PEN-ayt)	Muscle with shorter ﬁbers that run in an oblique line to attach to a central tendon.
pepsin (PEP-sin)	Strong protein enzyme produced by the stomach.
peptide (PEP-tide)	Compound made up of a chain of three to 49 amino acids.
perception (per-SEP-shun)	Mental process of becoming aware of or recognizing an object or idea; interpretation of stimuli.
perforating canal	Small canal (channel) in dense bone that communicates with the haversian canals, allowing for the passage of blood vessels into the bone; Volkmann’s canal.
pericardium (pair-uh-KAR-dee-um)	Connective tissue sac that surrounds the heart.
perimysium (pair-ee-MY-see-um)	Thin connective tissue layer surrounding each fascicle within a muscle.
perineum (pair-uh-NEE-um)	Region between the mons pubis and anus in females or between the scrotum and anus in males.
perineurium (pair-uh-NUR-ee-um)	Connective tissue covering that binds multiple nerve ﬁbers together to create a fascicle.
periosteum (pair-ee-AH-stee-um)	Connective tissue covering of all bones.
peripheral nervous system (PNS) (peh-RIF-er-al NER- vus)	Primary division of the nervous system consisting of the nerves and ganglia that connect the various parts of the body with the central nervous system.
peripheral resistance (peh-RIF-er-al ree-ZIS-tans)	Forces within the cardiovascular network that resist blood ﬂow, including the elasticity of blood vessels, the size of lumens, and blood viscosity.
peristalsis (pair-ih-STAHL-sis)	Wave-like contraction of the smooth muscle layer that propels contents forward through a muscular tube.
peritoneum (pair-uh-tuh-NEE-um)	Serous membrane that covers the abdominal organs and lines the abdominal cavity.
permissive effect	Eﬀect of one hormone on a target cell’s sensitivity in which sensitivity to another hormone is increased.
Peyer’s patch (PY-uhrz)	Small mass of lymphoid tissue located within the mucous membrane of the lower portion of the small intestine.
pH scale	Scale used to measure a compound’s acidity or alkalinity.
phagocyte (FAG-o-site)	Cell whose primary function is engulﬁng, ingesting (eating), and absorbing other cells, cell fragments, or debris.
phagocytosis (fag-o-sy-TO-sis)	Active transport mechanism in which cells, cell fragments, or debris are engulfed, ingested (eaten), and absorbed.
pharynx (FAIR-inks)	Passageway for air and food between the nose and larynx; commonly called the throat.
phasic muscle (FAY-zik)	Skeletal muscle whose primary role is to create movement.
pheromone (FAIR-uh-mone)	Type of protein secreted by apocrine glands.
photoreceptor (fo-to-ree-SEP-tor)	Sensory receptor that is sensitive to light.
physiologic effects (ﬁz-ee-ah-LOJ-ik)	Speciﬁc, objective, quantiﬁable changes in the body’s structure and/or function. physiology (ﬁz-ee-AHL-o-jee)
pia mater (PEE-uh MAH-ter)	Thin and delicate innermost layer of the meninges.
piezoelectricity (pee- zo-eh-lek-TRIS-ih-tee)	Small electrical charge along a cell or tissue surface created by mechanical pressure.
pineal gland (PY-nee-al)	Tiny gland in the diencephalon that produces melatonin.
pinocytosis (pee-no-sy-TO-sis)	Active transport mechanism by which extracellular ﬂuid is taken into a cell; “cell drinking.”
pituitary gland (pih-TOO-ih-tair-ee)	Master gland of the endocrine system that is attached to and regulated by the hypothalamus; has anterior and posterior lobes.
pivot joint (PIH-vuht)	Type of synovial joint in which the round articular surface of one bone ﬁts into the bony ring of another; allows rotation around a single axis.
placenta (plah-SEN-tah)	Blood-rich membrane that serves as a protective barrier, providing oxygen and nutrients for the fetus and carrying away fetal waste products.
plantar (PLAN-tahr)	Pertaining to the sole of the foot.
plantar ﬂexion (PLAN-tahr FLEK-shun)	Ankle movement in which the plantar surface moves downward; pointing the foot down.
plasma (PLAZ-mah)	Fluid or liquid component of blood.
plasma cell (PLAZ-mah)	Specialized B lymphocyte produced during an antibody-mediated immune response that produces and releases antibodies.
plasma membrane (PLAZ-mah MEM-brayn)	Selectively permeable boundary surrounding all cells; also known as the cell membrane .
plasma oncotic pressure (POP) (PLAZ-mah on-KAH- tik)	Osmotic pressure created by plasma proteins within the capillary to draw ﬂuid in from the interstitium.
plasma proteins (PLAZ-mah)	Protein elements in the liquid component of blood, including albumins, complements, clotting factors, and antibodies.
plasticity (plas-TIS-ih-tee)	Capacity to be molded, changed, or functionally modiﬁed; e.g., nervous or fascial plasticity.
platelet (PLAYT-let)	Formed element of blood that is a cellular fragment involved in clotting; also known as a thrombocyte .
pleura (PLUR-ah)	Serous membrane that lines the thoracic cavity and surrounds the lungs. plexus (PLEKS-us)
plicae (PLY-kah)	Circular folds in the lining of the small intestine that increase the surface area for absorption.
pons (PONZ)	Structure of the brain stem that forms a bridge connecting the medulla with the midbrain.
popliteal (pop-lah-TEE-al)	Pertaining to the posterior knee. pore Small opening in a membrane. positive feedback Least common homeostatic control mechanism; response to stimulus is sustained until no longer needed.
posterior (po-STEER-ee-or)	Back; also known as dorsal . postural muscle Skeletal muscle that plays an essential role in maintaining the body’s upright position.
precapillary sphincter (pree-KAP-eh-lair-ee SFINGK-ter)	Small ring of smooth muscle that encircles the entrance of the capillary at the end of the arteriole; controls the blood volume and rate of ﬂow into the capillary.
proliferative stage (pro-LIF-er-ah-tiv)	Second phase of the healing process that involves the creation of granulation tissue and the beginning of collagen remodeling; also known as the subacute stage .
propagation (prop-ah-GAY-shun)	In general, the process of spreading to a larger area or disseminating; in regard to the nervous system, refers to the conduction of an impulse along a nerve ﬁber.
proprioception (pro-pree-o-SEP-shun)	Sense and awareness of where body parts are positioned in space and in relationship to one another.
proprioceptor (pro-pree-o-SEP-tor)	Sensory receptor sensitive to movement and/or changes in length or tension in the muscles, tendons, ligaments, or joint fascia.
prostaglandin (prah-stah-GLAN-din)	Any of a group of locally acting hormone-like compounds derived from fatty acids and released by virtually all cells except red blood cells; eﬀects on surrounding tissue include alteration of fat metabolism and enhancing the inﬂammatory response.
prostate (PRAH-stayt)	Donut-shaped gland that surrounds the upper portion of the urethra and secretes a milky ﬂuid that is a primary component of semen.
protein (PRO-teen)	Organic molecule made of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen; breaks down into amino acids.
protein synthesis (PRO-teen SIN-thuh-sis)	Anabolic process in cells in which amino acids are chained together to produce proteins.
proximal (PRAHK-sih-mal)	In extremities, closer to the attachment point to the body.
psychogenic (sy-ko-JEN-ik)	Arising from the mind.
psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) (sy-ko-nur-o-im-yu- NAHL-o-jee)	Study of the communication links between the nervous, endocrine, immune, and digestive systems.
pubic (PYOO-bik)	Pertaining to the genital region.
pulmonary circuit (PUL-muh-nair-ee)	Cardiovascular circulatory pathway between the heart and lungs.
pulmonary valve (PUL-muh-nair-ee)	Heart valve located between the right ventricle and pulmonary artery.
pulse	Rhythmic expansion of an artery in response to ventricular contraction; can be felt by placing a ﬁnger on the skin over the artery.
Purkinje ﬁbers (PUR-kin-jee)	Small ﬁbers that are part of the heart’s conduction system and carry the action potential across the ventricles.
pus	Whitish ﬂuid mixture of interstitial ﬂuid, destroyed pathogens, phagocytes, and living or dead white blood cells.
pyloric sphincter (py-LOR-ik SFINGK-ter)	Smooth muscle ring between the stomach and duodenum that controls the ﬂow of chyme from the stomach into the small intestine.
pylorus (py-LOR-us)	Lower portion of the stomach.
pyruvic acid (py-ROO-vik)	Organic compound formed as an end product of glycolysis, the anaerobic phase of glucose metabolism; may be converted to lactic acid in muscle tissue.
range of motion (ROM)	Extent or range of movement of a joint measured in degrees (as in degrees of a circle).
reabsorption (ree-ab-SORP-shun)	In general, the process of a substance being absorbed again; for example, the second step in urine formation that occurs in the renal tubule in which water, nutrients, and ions are moved out of the renal tubule back into the blood.
receptor (ree-SEP-tor)	Sensory organs that are sensitive to speciﬁc types of stimuli.
reciprocal inhibition (ree-SIP-roh-kal in-hih-BIH-shun)	Reﬂex mechanism that coordinates the eﬀort between agonist and antagonist muscles.
rectum (REK-tum)	Straight distal portion of the large intestine between the sigmoid colon and the anus.
red blood cell (RBC)	Formed element of blood responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body; also known as an erythrocyte .
referred pain	Pain felt in body areas that are distant from the location of the aﬀected organ; generally associated with visceral pain.
reﬂex (REE-ﬂeks)	Involuntary and automatic response to a stimulus.
reﬂex arc (REE-ﬂeks)	Simple neuronal pathway involving two or three neurons that produces a predictable motor response to a speciﬁc sensory stimulus.
refractory period (ree-FRAK-tor-ee)	The time following an eﬀective stimulus during which the neuron is unable to respond to another threshold stimulus because its membrane has not yet repolarized.
releasing hormones	Group of hormones synthesized and released by the hypothalamus that stimulate hormone releases from the anterior pituitary gland.
remodeling	Cycle of breaking down and rebuilding bones carried out by osteoclasts and osteoblasts.
remodeling stage	Final phase of the healing process involving the ﬁnal thickening and alignment of scar tissue; see maturation stage .
renal (REE-nal)	Pertaining to the kidneys.
renal capsule (REE-nal KAP-sul)	Large fascial envelope that surrounds each kidney and attaches it to the abdominal wall.
renal corpuscle (REE-nal KOR-puh-sal)	Initial portion of a nephron comprising the glomerulus and Bowman’s capsule.
renal cortex (REE-nal KOR-teks)	Outer region of the kidney.
renal medulla (REE-nal meh-DU-lah)	Inner region of the kidney.
renal pelvis (REE-nal PEL-vis)	Region of the kidney where urine is collected before being passed into the ureter.
renal pyramid (REE-nal PEER-ah-mid)	Triangle-shaped bundle of microscopic tubes within the renal medulla that collect urine from a speciﬁc group of nephrons.
renal tubule (REE-nal TOO-byul)	Second portion of a nephron consisting of the proximal and distal convoluted tubules and the loop of Henle.
repolarization (ree-po-lah-ry-ZAY-shun)	Second stage of an action potential when positive potassium ions rush out of the neuron to return the cell to its original resting membrane potential.
reproductive system (ree-pro-DUK-tiv)	Body system consisting of gonads and accessory organs responsible for male and female sexual characteristics and reproductive processes.
resistance reaction	The part of the stress response with longer-term eﬀects; endocrine activity initiated when stress stimulus is sustained beyond the ability of the alarm response to manage.
resorption (ree-SORP-shun)	Process of breaking down bone tissue.
respiration (res-pih-RAY-shun)	Exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide across the respiratory or cell membrane.
respiratory membrane (RES-peh-rah-tor-ee)	Thin barrier formed by the alveolar and capillary walls where external respiration occurs.
respiratory mucosa (RES-peh-rah-tor-ee myu-KO-sah)	Mucous membrane that lines the respiratory tract.
respiratory system (RES-peh-rah-tor-ee)	Body system made up of the lungs and air passages involved in exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the atmosphere and the blood. resting membrane potential
reticular ﬁber (reh-TIK-yu-lar)	Thin collagen-like ﬁbers made from the protein reticulin.
reticular formation (reh-TIK-yu-lar)	Net-like arrangement of small masses of gray and white matter within the brain stem that plays a role in managing autonomic functions, muscle tone, and states of alertness and sleep.
reticulin (reh-TIK-yu-lin)	Type of thin, delicate collagen that makes up reticular ﬁbers in connective tissues.
retina (REH-tih-nah)	Light-sensitive membrane that forms the innermost layer of the wall of the eyeball.
ribonucleic acid (RNA) (ry-bo-nu-KLEE-ik)	Nucleic acid that copies portions of DNA to be translated by ribosomes to make proteins.
ribosome (RY-buh-zome)	Cell organelle that synthesizes proteins.
right lymphatic duct (lim-FAT-ik)	One of the two largest deep lymphatic vessels; collects lymph from the right upper quadrant of the body and returns it to the right subclavian vein.
rod	Photoreceptor of the eye sensitive to dim light.
rotation (ro-TAY-shun)	Movement about a ﬁxed point in a single axis that can occur in any plane.
Rufﬁni’s corpuscle (ru-FEE-neez KOR-puh-sal)	Deep cutaneous receptor that is sensitive to deep touch, pressure, and tissue distortion.
rugae (ROO-gy)	Specialized folds in the lining of an organ that allow it to distend to accommodate large quantities of content.
sacral (SA-kral)	Pertaining to the tailbone region.
saddle joint	Type of synovial joint in which bone surfaces are shaped like a saddle; allows ﬂexion, extension, abduction, and adduction.
sagittal plane (SAJ-ih-tal)	Vertical plane that divides the body or a body part into right and left sections.
saliva (suh-LY-vah)	Secretion of the salivary glands.
saltatory conduction (SAHL-tah-tor-ee kahn-DUK-shun)	Nerve transmission along a myelinated nerve ﬁber in which the impulse seems to jump from one node of Ranvier to the next.
sarcolemma (sar-ko-LEM-ah)	Plasma membrane of a muscle ﬁber.
sarcomere (SAR-ko-meer)	Contractile unit within a muscle ﬁber made up of a repetitive pattern of actin and myosin ﬁlaments.
sarcoplasm (SAR-ko-plaz-um)	Cytoplasm of a muscle ﬁber.
sarcoplasmic reticulum (sar-ko-PLAZ-mik reh-TIK-yu- lum)	Endoplasmic reticulum of a muscle ﬁber.
scapular (SKAP-yu-lar)	Pertaining to the shoulder blade.
scoliosis (sko-lee-O-sis)	Abnormal lateral curvature of the spine.
scrotum (SKRO-tum)	Pouch-like sac that encloses the testes.
sebaceous gland skin. sebum (SEE-bum)	Oily secretion of the sebaceous glands that is released onto the surface of the skin.
secondary edema (eh-DEE-mah)	Fluid drawn into the interstitial space in response to an increase in oncotic pressure caused by primary edema.
second-messenger mechanism	Method of action for water-soluble hormones; the hormone is the ﬁrst messenger, and the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) produced inside the cell is the second.
secretion (seh-KREE-shun)	In general, the process of producing and releasing substances from a cell
segmentation (seg-men-TAY-shun)	Mechanical digestive process of the small intestine that mixes and churns chyme in segments of the SI; created through alternating contractions of the circular smooth muscle.
semen (SEE-men)	Thick whitish ﬂuid consisting of sperm and secretions from several accessory reproductive organs.
semicircular canal (sem-ee-SER-kyu-lar)	Three bony tubes of the inner ear that contain the mechanoreceptors responsible for dynamic equilibrium.
seminal vesicle (SEM-eh-nal VES-ih-kal)	One of two ducts that secrete a thick alkaline ﬂuid that is a primary component of semen.
seminiferous tubules (sem-ih-NIF-er-us TOO-byulz)	Small coiled tubes within the testes that produce sperm.
sensation (sen-SAY-shun)	Impression created by the interpretation of a sensory stimulus by the brain, such as hot, cold, yellow, round, and so on.
sensory receptor (SENS-or-ee ree-SEP-tor)	Sensory nerve ending that is sensitive to a speciﬁc change in the environment (stimulus).
septum (SEP-tum)	Dividing wall of tissue.
sequela (seh-KWEL-ah)	Lasting results of a speciﬁc disease or dysfunction.
serosa (seh-RO-sah)	Outermost serous membrane layer of the digestive tract; visceral peritoneum.
serous ﬂuid (SEER-us)	Fluid secreted by a serous membrane.
serous membrane (SEER-us)	Epithelial membrane that folds to cover organs and line a cavity without openings to the external environment.
sexual reproduction (SEKS-shoo-al ree-pro-DUK-shun)	Process of producing oﬀspring that requires the joining of one male and one female sex cell.
sigmoid colon (SIG-moyd KO-lun)	Short S-shaped segment at the distal end of the descending colon.
sign	Objective indicator of disease that is usually measurable.
sinoatrial (SA) node (sy-no-AY-tree-al)	Collection of autorhythmic cardiac muscle cells located in the wall of the right atrium just inferior to the opening of the superior vena cava; acts as the heart’s pacemaker.
sinus (SY-nus)	Cavity inside a structure, such as within a bone.
skeletal system (SKEL-eh-tal)	Body system consisting of the bones and joints.
speciﬁc immune response	Defensive body reaction involving B and T cell activation by a speciﬁc pathogen; also known as an adaptive immune response .
sperm	Male sex cell (gamete).
sphincter (SFINGK-ter)	Ring of smooth muscle that controls the opening and closing of a body passage or oriﬁce.
spinal (SPY-nal)	Pertaining to the backbone region; also called vertebral .
spinal cavity (SPY-nal)	Cavity that contains the spinal cord; one of the two dorsal cavities.
spinal nerve (SPY-nal)	Nerve originating from the spinal cord.
spinal segment (SPY-nal)	Transverse section of the spinal cord that gives rise to a pair of spinal nerves.
spleen	Large vascular lymphoid organ located in the upper left abdominal quadrant; functions include lymphocyte and platelet storage, blood ﬁltering, and serving as an emergency blood reserve.
splenic ﬂexure (SPLEH-nik FLEK-shur)	Point of intersection in the large intestine between the transverse and descending colons.
spongy bone (SPUN-jee)	Bone tissue that looks like a sponge made of a latticework network of trabeculae ﬁlled with red bone marrow; also known as cancellous bone .
sprain	Joint injury in which ligaments are stretched or torn.
stabilizer (STAY-bih-ly-zer)	Muscle that stabilizes or ﬁxes the origin end of a prime mover so that the movement is more eﬃcient; also known as the ﬁxator.
stem cell	An undiﬀerentiated cell capable of indeﬁnitely giving rise to more cells of the same or diﬀerent types.
sternal (STER-nal)	Pertaining to the breastbone region.
steroid hormone (STAIR-oyd)	Lipid-soluble hormone made from cholesterol.
stimulus (STIM-yu-lus)	Any internal or external change in the environment that produces a response.
stomach (STUH-mak)	Pouch-shaped muscular organ of digestion located in the upper left abdominal quadrant.
strain	Injury that occurs when a muscle or tendon is stretched or torn.
strata (STRAH-tah)	Layers (singular: stratum).
stress response	Group of physiologic responses initiated by the hypothalamus when stress is perceived; includes the alarm response of the autonomic nervous division and the resistance reaction of the endocrine system.
stretch reﬂex	Reﬂexive contraction of a muscle after it is stretched due to stimulation of proprioceptors.
structural effects (STRUK-chur-al)	Physical changes created by manual therapy, such as softening, loosening, or reducing restrictions in muscles and connective tissue.
subacute stage (sub-ah-KYOOT)	Second phase of the healing process that involves the creation of granulation tissue and the beginning of collagen remodeling; also known as the proliferative stage .
subcutaneous layer (sub-kyu-TAY-nee-us)	Fat and areolar connective tissue that lies between the dermis and underlying tissues and organs; also known as the hypodermis or superﬁcial fascia .
submucosa (sub-myu-KO-sah)	Tissue layer directly beneath the mucosa.
sudoriferous gland (soo-duh-RIF-er-us)	Sweat gland.
sulcus (SUL-kus)	Shallow groove or depression, as in the cerebrum (plural: sulci).
superﬁcial (soo-per-FISH-al)	Closer to the surface.
superﬁcial fascia (soo-per-FISH-al FASH-ah)	Fat and areolar connective tissue that lies between the dermis and underlying tissues and organs; also known as the hypodermis or subcutaneous layer .
superior (soo-PEER-ee-or)	Above; closer to head; cephalad.
suppressor T cell (suh-PRES-or)	Specialized lymphocyte that inhibits or shuts down the body’s speciﬁc immune response when no longer needed.
suprarenal gland (soo-prah-REE-nal)	Endocrine gland situated on top of each kidney; also known as the adrenal gland .
sural (SUR-uhl)	Pertaining to the calf (posterior lower leg).
suture (SOO-chur)	Fibrous line of junction or an immovable joint between two bones, as in the skull; also the surgical process of closing a wound or joining tissues using stitches.
sympathetic (sim-pah-THET-ik)	Pertaining to the ﬁght- or-ﬂight (emergency response) division of the autonomic nervous system.
sympathetic chain (sim-pah-THET-ik)	Chain of sympathetic ganglia beside the vertebral column; also known as the paravertebral chain .
symptom (SIM-tum)	Subjective indicator of disease as perceived by the patient; not easily measured or quantiﬁed.
synapse (SIN-naps)	Functional junction point between a neuron and another neuron or an eﬀector.
synaptic bulb (sin-NAP-tik)	Small knob at the distal end of each axon terminal where the vesicles containing neurotransmitters are stored.
synaptic cleft (sin-NAP-tik)	Tiny gap between the presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons across which the neurotransmitter diﬀuses.
synarthrosis (sin-ar-THRO-sis)	Type of joint that does not allow movement; also called ﬁbrous joint .
synergist (SIN-er-jist)	Muscle that assists the agonist in creating movement.
synergistic effect (sin-er-JIS-tik)	Eﬀect of two hormones working together to enhance or intensify a target’s response beyond that which occurs when each hormone acts singly.
synovial ﬂuid (sin-O-vee-ahl)	Fluid secreted by the connective tissue membrane that lines any diarthrotic joint.
synovial joint (sin-O-vee-ahl)	Joint with a ﬁbrous capsule and synovial lining that allows free movement; also known as a diarthrosis .
synovial membrane (sin-O-vee-ahl)	Thin connective tissue lining of the ﬁbrous capsule in diarthrotic joints and bursas.
system (SIS-tum)	Group of organs working together to accomplish a set of functions.
systemic circuit (sis-TEM-ik)	Cardiovascular pathway between the heart and the tissues of the body.
systemic effects (sis-TEM-ik)	Response to manual therapy that is mediated by the cellular, circulatory, endocrine, and/or nervous systems; occurs regionally or throughout the body.
systole (SIS-tah-lee)	Contraction state of a heart chamber.
T cell	Specialized lymphocyte involved in cell-mediated immunity; also called a T lymphocyte.
tactile receptor (TAK-tuhl ree-SEP-tor)	Sensory receptor found in the skin that is sensitive to touch, vibration, or pressure.
tarsal (TAR-sahl)	Pertaining to the ankle.
taste bud	Cluster of gustatory cells (chemoreceptors for taste) found primarily in the papillae (tiny bumps) on the tongue’s surface.
temporal (TEM-per-al)	Pertaining to the temple of the skull.
tender point (TeP)	Localized area of tenderness within a muscle that is painful when compressed.
tendinopathy (ten-dih-NAHP-uh-thee)	Condition in which one or more tendons are strained or degenerated.
tendon (TEN-duhn)	Band of ﬁbrous connective tissue that attaches muscle to bone.
tenoperiosteal junction (tee-no-pair-ee-AH-stee-uhl)	Tissue zone where a tendon transitions and weaves into the periosteum to attach to a bone.
tensegrity (ten-SEG-rih-tee)	System in which tension between two opposing forces is balanced to create structural integrity; a contraction for “tension integrity” structuring
thrombocyte (THRAHM-bo-site)	Formed element of blood that is a cellular fragment involved in clotting; also known as a platelet .
thromboembolism (thrahm-bo-EM-bo-lih-zum)	Traveling blood clot.
thrombus (THRAHM-bus)	Stationary blood clot.
thymosin (THY-mah-sin)	Hormone secreted by the thymus; plays an essential role in the development and maturation of T cells for immune response.
thymus (THY-mus)	Endocrine gland located deep to the sternum and anterior to the trachea; secretes thymosin.
thyroid gland (THY-royd)	Endocrine gland in the throat just inferior to the voice box; secretes thyroxine (T 4 ), triiodothyronine (T 3 ), and calcitonin.
thyroid hormone (THY-royd)	Metabolism-boosting lipid- soluble hormone secreted by the thyroid gland; includes triiodothyronine (T 3 ) and thyroxine (T 4 ).
thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) (THY-royd)	Tropic hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary; stimulates the thyroid gland to release the thyroid hormones.
thyroxine (thy-RAHK-sin)	Hormone produced by the thyroid gland that increases cellular metabolism.
tissue (TISH-yu)	Group of like cells working together.
tonic contraction (TAH-nik)	Sustained muscle contraction in which low-grade tension is maintained, as occurs in maintaining posture.
tonsil (TAHN-sil)	Small mass of lymphoid tissue located in the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat.
trabecula (trah-BEK-yu-lah)	Small beam or partitioning structure (plural: trabeculae).
trachea (TRAY-kee-uh)	Tube that connects the upper respiratory tract to the lungs; commonly called the windpipe.
tract	Bundle of myelinated axons within the spinal cord.
transduction (tranz-DUK-shun)	Process of converting a stimulus to an action potential; the ﬁrst step in translating a stimulus to a pain perception.
transferrin (tranz-FAIR-in)	Plasma protein that binds iron when activated by a pathogen to make it unavailable to bacteria.
transmission (tranz-MIH-shun)	The carrying of a nerve impulse along a neuron.
transverse colon (TRANZ-vers KO-lun)	Segment of the large intestine that extends across the top of the abdominal cavity between the ascending and descending portions of the colon.
transverse plane (TRANZ-vers)	Horizontal plane that divides the body or a body part into superior and inferior sections.
traumatic edema (trah-MAT-ik eh-DEE-muh)	Edema related to soft tissue damage, such as that resulting from sprains, strains, or contusions.
tricuspid valve (try-KUSS-pid)	Heart valve located between the right atrium and ventricle. trigger point (TP) Hyperirritable nodule within a skeletal muscle that produces a pattern of referred pain when moderately compressed.
triglyceride (try-GLIH-suh-ride)	Lipid molecule absorbed from the digestive tract for metabolism by the body.
triiodothyronine (try-y-o-do-THY-ruh-neen)	Hormone produced by the thyroid gland that increases cellular metabolism; contains three iodine atoms, also known as .
trochanter (TRO-kan-ter)	Large condyle on the proximal femur.
tropocollagen (troh-poh-KAHL-ah-jen)	Protein molecule that is the basic structural unit of collagen; consists of three coiled polypeptide chains, giving it a triple-helix appearance.
tubercle (TOO-ber-kul)	Small mound or elevation; a rounded projection from a bone.
tuberosity (too-beh-RAH-seh-tee)	Large projection or protuberance, especially at the end of a bone, where a muscle or tendon attaches.
twitch	Sudden spasmodic muscle contraction.
ulcer (UL-ser)	Localized lesion in the skin or mucous membrane; often an open sore that heals slowly.
umbilical (um-BIL-ih-kal)	Pertaining to the umbilicus (navel).
umbilical cord (um-BIL-ih-kal)	Vascular cord that attaches the developing fetus to the placenta.
urea (yur-EE-ah)	Byproduct of amino acid catabolism created from ammonia and excreted in urine.
ureter (YUR-uh-ter)	Muscular tube that carries urine from the kidney to the urinary bladder.
urethra (yu-REE-thruh)	Narrow tube that carries urine from the urinary bladder to the external environment; in males, also carries semen.
urinary system (YUR-eh-nair-ee)	Body system involved in elimination of ﬂuid wastes and regulation of water and electrolyte balance.
urination (yur-ih-NAY-shun)	Process of passing urine out of the urethra; also known as micturition .
urine (YUR-in)	Liquid waste formed by the kidneys.
uterus (YOO-teh-rus)	Pear-shaped hollow muscular organ of the female reproductive tract that houses the developing fetus; also called a womb .
vagina (vuh-JY-nah)	Muscular genital canal between the cervix and exterior environment; also called the birth canal .
vas deferens (vas DEF-er-enz)	Tube that carries sperm out of the epididymis and over the posterior side of the bladder to the ejaculatory duct.
vasoconstriction (vay-zo-kahn-STRIK-shun)	Decrease in the size of the lumen of a blood vessel caused by contraction of the smooth muscle within the vessel’s wall.
vasodilation (vay-zo-dy-LAY-shun)	Increase in the size of the lumen of a blood vessel caused by the relaxation of the smooth muscle within the vessel’s wall.
vasopressin (vay-zo-PRESS-in)	Hormone secreted by the posterior pituitary that inhibits urine production in the kidneys; also known as antidiuretic hormone .
vein (VAYN)	Blood vessel that carries blood toward the heart.
ventilation (ven-tih-LAY-shun)	Movement of air into and out of the lungs; breathing.
ventral (VEN-tral)	Front; also known as anterior .
ventricle (VEN-trih-kal)	Chamber or hollow cavity in a structure or organ, such as the chambers of the heart or cavities in the brain ﬁlled with cerebrospinal ﬂuid.
venule (VEN-yool)	Small vein.
vertebral (ver-TEE-bral)	Pertaining to the backbone region; also called spinal .
vesicle (VEH-sih-kal)	Small sac containing liquid inside cells or tissues.
vestibule (VES-tih-byool)	Small space at the base of the semicircular canals of the inner ear that contains mechanoreceptors responsible for static equilibrium.
villi (VIH-ly)	Finger-like projections from the small intestine mucosa that increase the surface area for absorption.
visceral (VIS-er-al)	Pertaining to an organ or to the serous membrane layer that surrounds an organ.
visceral effector (VIS-er-al ee-FEK-tor)	Gland or organ with smooth or cardiac muscle innervated via autonomic pathways.
viscoelasticity (vis-ko-ee-las-TIS-ih-tee)	Ability of tissues to slowly extend and rebound.
vitamin (VY-tuh-min)	Fat- or water-soluble micronutrient necessary for proper growth and normal metabolism.
vocal cord (VO-kuhl)	Small fold in the mucous membrane of the larynx that produces sound as air passes over and causes it to vibrate; vocal fold.
volar (VO-lar)	Pertaining to the posterior hand.
Volkmann’s canal (VOLK-manz)	Small canal (channel) in dense bone that communicates with the haversian canals, allowing for the passage of blood vessels into the bone; perforating canal.
vulva (VUL-vah)	Female external genitalia.
watershed	Zone between lymphotomes.
water-soluble hormone (wah-ter-SAHL-yu-bal)	Hormone that is easily transported in blood and requires a second messenger to stimulate metabolic changes in target cells.
white blood cell (WBC)	Formed element of blood that plays a vital role in the body’s healing and immune responses; includes neutrophils, basophils, eosinophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes; also known as a leukocyte .
white matter	Areas of the brain or spinal cord made primarily of the myelinated axons of neurons.
zygote (ZY-gote)	Fertilized egg.

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