lordosis

noun lor·do·sis \ lȯr-ˈdō-səs \

Definition of lordosis

plural lordoses play \lȯr-ˈdō-ˌsēz\

1 a : the normal convex curvature of the cervical and lumbar regions of the spine

b : abnormally exaggerated forward curvature of the lumbar and cervical regions of the spine resulting in a concave back when viewed from the side : hyperlordosis, swayback — compare kyphosis

2 : a mating posture of some sexually receptive female mammals (such as rats) in which the head and rump are raised and the back is arched downward

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lordotic

play \lȯr-ˈdä-tik\ adjective

See lordosis defined for kids

Origin and Etymology of lordosis

New Latin, from Greek lordōsis, from lordos curving forward; akin to Old English belyrtan to deceive

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1704

in the meaning defined at sense 1

See Words from the same year

Medical Dictionary

lordosis

noun lor·do·sis \ lȯr-ˈdō-səs \

medical Definition of lordosis

1 : the normal convex curvature of the cervical and lumbar regions of the spine

2 : abnormally exaggerated forward curvature of the lumbar and cervical regions of the spine resulting in a concave back when viewed from the side — called also swayback; compare kyphosis, scoliosis

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