Left clavicle, superior surface

The clavicle is part of the anterior portion of the shoulder girdle. It is an elongated bone with an "italic S" curvature. The Latin term for clavicle is [clavicula], and it has two root terms: [-clavic-] and [-clav-]. This is why we have the terms [subclavicular], and [subclavian] both meaning the same: "inferior to the clavicle".

The clavicle articulates medially with the manubrium of the sternum (see image on this article) by way of the sternoclavicular joint. This joint contains a meniscus. Laterally, the clavicle articulates with the acromial process or acromium of the scapula.

The clavicle has the muscular insertions of several muscles: sternocleidomastoid, trapezius, pectoralis major, deltoid, subclavius, and sternohyoid.

Sources:
1. "The Origin of Medical Terms" Skinner, HA 1970 Hafner Publishing Co.
2 "Tratado de Anatomia Humana" Testut et Latarjet 8 Ed. 1931 Salvat Editores, Spain
3. "Anatomy of the Human Body" Henry Gray 1918. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger
Image modified by CAA, Inc. Original image by Henry Vandyke Carter, MD., courtesy of bartleby.com