Term
Scapula
Meaning
The scapula, or shoulder blade, is a flat triangular bone on the back of the ribcage that carries a prominent ridge called its spine, which runs across its upper part (OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology). Because it moves together with the collarbone, the shoulder can travel widely, and when the arm is raised the blade rotates and changes the shape of the upper back. Artists look for the ridge and the lower tip as landmarks on lean figures. See also: Clavicle, Acromion, Trapezius and the guide "Skeleton Landmarks Every Figure Artist Should Know".