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== Lunate Bone ==

The '''Lunate bone''' (pronounced: LOO-nate bone) is one of the eight small bones that make up the [[carpal bones]] in the human [[wrist]]. 

=== Etymology ===

The term "lunate" comes from the Latin word "luna", meaning moon, due to the crescent shape of the bone.

=== Anatomy ===

The lunate bone is situated in the middle of the second row of carpal bones, between the [[scaphoid bone]] and the [[triquetral bone]]. It articulates with the radius in the forearm, and with the capitate and hamate bones in the hand. 

=== Function ===

The lunate bone, along with the other carpal bones, allows for the complex movements of the wrist. It plays a crucial role in the flexion, extension, abduction and adduction of the wrist.

=== Related Terms ===

* [[Carpal bones]]: The group of eight small bones that make up the wrist.
* [[Scaphoid bone]]: The bone situated laterally to the lunate bone in the proximal row of carpal bones.
* [[Triquetral bone]]: The bone situated medially to the lunate bone in the proximal row of carpal bones.
* [[Radius]]: The larger of the two bones in the forearm, with which the lunate bone articulates.
* [[Capitate bone]]: The largest of the carpal bones, situated in the distal row of carpal bones.
* [[Hamate bone]]: The bone situated medially to the capitate bone in the distal row of carpal bones.

[[Category:Anatomy]]
[[Category:Orthopedics]]
[[Category:Medical Dictionary]]

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