# thoracic

/θɔˈɹæsɪk/ (US) · /θɔːɹˈæsɪk/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/thoracic
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

relating to the chest area of the body. You use this word to describe the part of the skeleton or organs between the neck and the stomach.

For teachers: relating to the thorax, the region of the body between the neck and the abdomen. Often used in medical contexts to specify the location of vertebrae, nerves, or surgical procedures.

## Examples

- The doctor examined the patient's thoracic cavity.
- The thoracic vertebrae are the twelve bones of the spine that support the rib cage and protect the heart and lungs.
- Advanced imaging techniques allow surgeons to map the thoracic region with high precision before performing complex operations on the esophagus or major blood vessels.

## Usage notes

- Typically used in medical or biological contexts; often precedes nouns like 'cavity', 'spine', or 'surgery'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.