furcula

noun

fur·​cu·​la ˈfər-kyə-lə 

plural furculae ˈfər-kyə-ˌlē  -ˌlī 

: a forked process or part: such as

a

: wishbone

b

: the forked leaping appendage arising from the fourth abdominal segment of a springtail

Examples of furcula in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The presence of this furcula alongside Baminornis hints at a richer and more complex avian ecosystem than previously envisioned in the Jurassic period. —Scott Travers, Forbes, 23 Feb. 2025

At first, wishes were made on the unbroken bones of the furcula by gently stroking them. —John Tufts, The Courier-Journal, 26 Nov. 2024

Think of the furcula as similar to our collarbones, only the furcula is slightly more elastic. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Oct. 2023

To play the turkey wishbone game, two people think about a wish while each is pulling on opposite ends of the furcula. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Oct. 2023

The critter’s technique comes from two special body parts: an appendage called a furcula, which smacks the water to launch it into the air, and an abdominal tube known as a collophore, which holds a droplet of water to stabilize its flight and act as an anchor on its landing. —Carlyn Kranking, Smithsonian Magazine, 27 Dec. 2022

On Thanksgiving, the furcula is much sought-after to make a wish. —Sue Selasky, Detroit Free Press, 25 Nov. 2021

Technically it's called the furcula and acts to strengthen the thoracic skeleton, supporting the wing strut. —Sue Selasky, Detroit Free Press, 25 Nov. 2021

Thanks to the discovery of his furcula, or wishbone, scientists have learned more about dinosaurs' relationship to birds. —Domenica Bongiovanni, The Indianapolis Star, 13 Oct. 2020

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, forked prop, diminutive of furca

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

furcula

noun

fur·​cu·​la ˈfər-kyə-lə 

plural furculae -ˌlē  -ˌlī 

: an elevation on the embryonic floor of the pharynx from which the epiglottis develops