Xiph"i*ster"num (?), n.; pl. Xiphisterna (#). [NL., fr. Gr. xi`fos a sword + sternum.] Anat. (a)
The posterior segment, or extremity, of the sternum; -- sometimes called metasternum, ensiform cartilage, ensiform process, or xiphoid process.
(b)
The xiphiplastron.
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Xiph"i*ster"nal (#) a.
© Webster 1913.