intercostal

[ in-ter-kos-tl, -kaw-stl ]

adjective

1. pertaining to muscles, parts, or intervals between the ribs.
2. situated between the ribs.
3. Shipbuilding. noting a structural member situated between or divided by continuous members, as frames or keelsons.

noun

1. an intercostal muscle, member, or space.

intercostal

/ ˌɪntəˈkɒstəl /

adjective

1. anatomy between the ribs

   intercostal muscles

Other Words From

• inter·costal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of intercostal¹

From the New Latin word intercostālis, dating back to 1590–1600. See inter-, costal

Word History and Origins

Origin of intercostal¹

C16: via New Latin from Latin inter- + costa rib

Example Sentences

Reliever Michael Grove was put on the 15-day IL because of a right intercostal muscle strain, an injury that is not expected to sideline the right-hander for more than a few weeks.

From Los Angeles Times

Third baseman Austin Riley is day to day with a left intercostal strain, and catcher Sean Murphy remains on the 10-day injured list with an oblique injury after he got hurt on opening day.

From Seattle Times

She referred to their hip joints and femur bones, their side intercostals and adductors.

From New York Times

Wendle has been on the injured list since April 4 with a right intercostal strain.

From Seattle Times

He said it was a different sensation from oblique and intercostal injuries that he’s experienced in the past, and described his current restrictions as more of a precaution.

From Los Angeles Times