pelvis

[ pel-vis ]
/ ˈpɛl vɪs /

noun, plural pel·vis·es, pel·ves [pel-veez] /ˈpɛl viz/. Anatomy, Zoology.

the basinlike cavity in the lower part of the trunk of many vertebrates, formed in humans by the innominate bones, sacrum, etc.
the bones forming this cavity.
the cavity of the kidney that receives the urine before it is passed into the ureter.

Origin of pelvis

1605–15; < New Latin; Latin: basin; akin to Greek pellís bowl

Example sentences from the Web for pelvis

British Dictionary definitions for pelvis

pelvis
/ (ˈpɛlvɪs) /

noun plural -vises or -ves (-viːz)

the large funnel-shaped structure at the lower end of the trunk of most vertebrates: in man it is formed by the hipbones and sacrum
the bones that form this structure
any anatomical cavity or structure shaped like a funnel or cup
short for renal pelvis

Word Origin for pelvis

C17: from Latin: basin, laver

Medical definitions for pelvis

pelvis
[ pĕlvĭs ]

n. pl. pel•vis•es

A basin-shaped structure of the vertebrate skeleton, composed of the innominate bones on the sides, the pubis in front, and the sacrum and coccyx behind, that rests on the lower limbs and supports the spinal column.
The cavity formed by this structure.
A basinlike or cup-shaped anatomical cavity.

Scientific definitions for pelvis

pelvis
[ pĕlvĭs ]

Plural pelvises pelves (pĕlvēz)

The basin-shaped structure in vertebrate animals that joins the spine and lower or hind limbs. In primates, the pelvis is composed of the two hipbones joined to the sacrum. It contains, protects, and supports the intestines, bladder, and internal reproductive organs.

Cultural definitions for pelvis

pelvis

The bowl-shaped group of bones connecting the trunk of the body to the legs and supporting the spine. The pelvis includes the hip bones and the lower part of the backbone.