thoracic cavity

noun

plural thoracic cavities

: the cavity of the thorax (see thorax sense 1) that is bounded below by the diaphragm, is enclosed by the sternum, ribs, and thoracic vertebrae, and that contains the heart and lungs

… an inflammation of the thoracic cavity which feels like a burning stiffness of the muscles …

—Harold Brodky

Word History

First Known Use

1779, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

thoracic cavity

noun

: the cavity of the thorax (see thorax sense 1a) that is bounded below by the diaphragm, is enclosed by the sternum, ribs, and thoracic vertebrae, and that contains the heart and lungs