Bones & skeleton

The human skeleton is the internal framework of 206 named bones that support the body, protect the organs, anchor the muscles, and store minerals.

About bones & skeleton

Gray's Anatomy of the Human Body (1918) devotes its opening section, Osteology, to naming and describing every bone of the adult skeleton — from the cranium to the phalanges of the toes. The skeleton is conventionally divided into the axial skeleton (skull, spine, ribs, sternum) and the appendicular skeleton (limbs and their girdles).

Answers in this topic

Questions

What is the kneecap called?
A small, flat, triangular sesamoid bone embedded in the tendon of the quadriceps.
What is the thigh bone called?
The longest, strongest, and heaviest bone in the human body.
What is the collarbone called?
A slender, doubly-curved long bone that lies almost horizontally.
What is the shoulder blade called?
A large, flat, triangular bone.
What is the breastbone called?
A flat, elongated bone in three parts: manubrium, body, and xiphoid process.

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Last verified: 2026-07-18

  • Best Anatomy Answers is an educational reference about human anatomy. It is not medical advice — for any health concern, talk to a licensed medical professional.

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