What is the anatomical term for the breastbone?

The breastbone is anatomically referred to as the sternum. It is a flat, elongated bone located at the midline of the chest, serving as a central component of the rib cage. The sternum plays a crucial role in protecting vital organs such as the heart and lungs, and it provides attachment points for ribs via costal cartilages. Additionally, it is subdivided into three parts: the manubrium, the body, and the xiphoid process, with the manubrium being the upper part. Understanding the structure and function of the sternum is essential in fields such as anatomy and medicine, especially when interpreting radiographs or discussing chest injuries.