Definition of Calcaneus
Calcaneus: The calcaneus is the heel bone. It is also called the os calcis. The calcaneus is a more or less rectangular bone at the back of the foot.
The word "calcaneus" comes from the Latin calx meaning limestone. The heel bone looked like a lump of chalk (to someone). The word "calcium" also comes from calx.
Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionaryhttp://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=9013
Last Editorial Review: 4/3/1999 10:10:00 PM
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