kyphosis

noun

ky·​pho·​sis kī-ˈfō-səs How to pronounce kyphosis (audio)
: exaggerated outward curvature of the thoracic region of the spine resulting in a rounded upper back compare lordosis
kyphotic adjective

Examples of kyphosis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The promise of a longer-looking neck may sound appealing to those with kyphosis, a forward curvature of the upper spine — casually known as a hunchback — but unfortunately, traptox is unlikely to make a difference in its appearance. Marci Robin, Allure, 25 Sep. 2023 Over a decade ago, I was diagnosed with kyphosis, a hunching of the upper spine. Channon Hodge, CNN, 9 Apr. 2022 The curve was 105 degrees; a normal curve at the top of the spine, known as kyphosis, is 40 degrees. Ed Stannard, Hartford Courant, 6 Sep. 2022 My kyphosis is quite moderate compared with others’, yet it is aesthetically pronounced. The New Yorker, 19 Apr. 2021 An exaggerated curve—called kyphosis in the upper back and lordosis, or swayback, in the lower back—can lead to discomfort and, in extreme cases, can reduce mobility. Patricia Marx, The New Yorker, 22 Mar. 2021 Abdominal rotations can improve lower-back health and range of motion and prevent kyphosis, a curvature of the upper back. Philly.com, 27 Mar. 2018 Ignoring compression fractures in your spine can lead to a spinal deformity called kyphosis, where the upper back curves forward, affecting spine flexibility, breathing, nerve roots and a patient’s overall health. Tj Gibson, azcentral, 14 Mar. 2018 He was called a hunchback because of an extreme curvature of his spine, a medical condition called kyphosis. Marcus Rediker, Smithsonian, 30 Sep. 2017

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'kyphosis.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek kyphōsis, from kyphos humpbacked

First Known Use

1847, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of kyphosis was in 1847

Dictionary Entries Near kyphosis

Cite this Entry

“Kyphosis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kyphosis. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

kyphosis

noun
ky·​pho·​sis kī-ˈfō-səs How to pronounce kyphosis (audio)
plural kyphoses -ˌsēz How to pronounce kyphosis (audio)
: exaggerated outward curvature of the thoracic region of the spinal column resulting in a rounded upper back compare lordosis sense 2, scoliosis
kyphotic adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on kyphosis

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