intercostal

adjective

in·​ter·​cos·​tal ˌin-tər-ˈkä-stᵊl How to pronounce intercostal (audio)
: situated or extending between the ribs
intercostal spaces
intercostal muscles
intercostal noun

Examples of intercostal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While expressing cautious optimism that the injury isn't serious, Lovullo was taken aback when told by the media that Arenado described it as an intercostal issue, referring to the muscles between the rib cage. — ABC News, 16 Aug. 2026 Knack has been on the IL with an intercostal strain suffered in spring training. — Bill Plunkett, Oc Register, 28 Apr. 2026 The 26-page report describes two stab wounds — one to the right abdomen that perforated the liver and another to the left chest that penetrated an intercostal space. — Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 23 Apr. 2026 Baumler was put on the 15-day IL with a right intercostal strain and the Rangers called up Luis Curvelo from Triple-A Round Rock to replace him on the roster. — Lawrence Dow, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for intercostal

Word History

Etymology

New Latin intercostalis, from Latin inter- + costa rib — more at coast

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of intercostal was in 1597

Rhymes for intercostal

See All Rhymes for intercostal

Browse Nearby Words

intercosmic
intercostal
intercountry
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Intercostal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intercostal. Accessed 30 Aug. 2026.

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Medical Definition

intercostal

1 of 2 adjective
in·​ter·​cos·​tal ˌint-ər-ˈkäs-tᵊl How to pronounce intercostal (audio)
: situated or extending between the ribs
intercostal vessels
intercostal spaces

intercostal

2 of 2 noun
: an intercostal part or structure (as a muscle or nerve)
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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