kyphosis

noun

ky·​pho·​sis kī-ˈfō-səs 

: exaggerated outward curvature of the thoracic region of the spine resulting in a rounded upper back compare lordosis

kyphotic

kī-ˈfä-tik 

adjective

Examples of kyphosis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Gerek Wright won the blue ribbon for his paper on kyphosis, which causes the spine to curve excessively forward. — Melinda Moore, Chicago Tribune, 17 Aug. 2026

Tech neck — clinically, cervical kyphosis — has become one of the most common sources of neck and upper-back pain as daily screen hours climb. — Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 23 July 2026

The condition, also known as cervical kyphosis, is an abnormal forward curve of the neck. — Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 23 July 2026

Spinal stenosis, which causes the spinal column to tighten, and kyphosis, which causes a curved spine, are two types. — Mark Gurarie, Health, 1 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek kyphōsis, from kyphos humpbacked

First Known Use

1847, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

kyphosis

noun

ky·​pho·​sis kī-ˈfō-səs 

plural kyphoses -ˌsēz 

: exaggerated outward curvature of the thoracic region of the spinal column resulting in a rounded upper back compare lordosis sense 2, scoliosis

kyphotic

-ˈfät-ik 

adjective