lordosis

noun

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lor·do·sis | \ lȯr-ˈdō-səs

plural lordoses\ lȯr-ˈdō-ˌsēz

Definition of lordosis

1a : 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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Examples of lordosis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web When that curve is lost, it is called loss of cervical lordosis. — Dr. Keith Roach, oregonlive, 27 Oct. 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 Tech neck explained The natural curvature (lordosis) in our neck is designed to take the weight of our 10- to 12-pound head and place it over structures of the spine designed to support it. — Detroit Free Press, 22 July 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'lordosis.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.