1
: a caudal vertebra
2
: coccyx

Examples of tailbone in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The same tiny cutouts ran along the bottom of her tailbone and the tops of her hips. — Lara Walsh, InStyle, 24 Aug. 2026 According to the Mayo Clinic, Pilonidal disease usually occurs when hair punctures and embeds itself in a pocket of skin near the tailbone. — Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 6 Aug. 2026 By the time she was hospitalized in 2020, Pearlene Darby, a retired teacher, had suffered open sores on both legs, both hips, and both heels, as well as a five-inch-long gash on her tailbone. — Jordan Rau, Miami Herald, 23 Apr. 2026 Sanders suffered injuries, including a concussion, headaches, possible traumatic brain injury, back and tailbone injuries and extreme mental anguish. — Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 17 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for tailbone

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1577, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of tailbone was circa 1577

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Cite this Entry

“Tailbone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tailbone. Accessed 25 Sep. 2026.

Kids Definition

Medical Definition

1
: a caudal vertebra
2
: coccyx

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