How to Pronounce Metatarsal Bones

Say it like this: met-ah-TAR-sal. Break it into four syllables, and stress (emphasize) the third syllable, which is 'TAR.' The first part sounds like 'met' (rhymes with 'get'), then 'ah,' then the loud 'TAR,' and finally 'sal' (rhymes with 'pal').

Many people stress the wrong syllable and say 'MET-ah-tar-sal' or 'met-ah-tar-SAL.' Remember: the stress goes on the third syllable—TAR. Think of it like 'tar' road, said loudly.

The prefix 'meta-' comes from Greek and means 'after' or 'beyond.' In this word, it refers to the bones that come *after* the tarsal bones (the ankle/heel bones). So metatarsals are the bones located beyond the tarsals.

'Tarsal' refers to the tarsus, which is a group of small bones in the ankle and heel area. So when you say 'metatarsal,' you're naming bones that are positioned after those tarsal bones, moving toward the toes.

Sure! Here's an example: 'The metatarsal bones help form the arch in the middle of your foot.' Another way: 'There are five metatarsal bones in each foot, numbered from the big toe side to the little toe side.'

Yes, doctors and nurses often just say 'metatarsals' (pronounced met-ah-TAR-salz) as a plural shorthand. You might also see the abbreviation 'MT' or 'MTs' in medical writing, but people always spell out the full word when speaking.

You'll hear 'tarsal' used on its own to describe the small ankle and heel bones. There's also 'tarsi' (TAR-sigh), which is the plural form of 'tarsus.' All these words come from the same Greek root meaning the bones of the ankle area.

It has four syllables: met-ah-TAR-sal. A helpful tip is to tap your chin gently four times as you say each syllable—that helps you feel the rhythm and remember the stressed syllable (the third tap should be the strongest).