Naming: Pelvis & Hips Anatomy Introduction

The Pelvis

In Latin, “pelvis” means “basin” or “large bowl” and the pelvis is indeed like a bowl in which organs are held and out of which the spine grows.

The pelvic region may be called:

• Pelvis
• Pelvic Girdle
• Hip Girdle
• Bony Pelvis
• Pelvic Bowl

Naming Conventions

• Sometimes a name such as “pelvis” is intended to refer specifically to the bones in the pelvic region and sometimes the name refers to the bones, joints, ligaments and muscles of the pelvic region.
• Due to the lack of consistency in naming among various sources, we encourage you to clarify the terminology of the source, and to specify your meaning when teaching.