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What is the Chest Area Called?

Published in Chest Anatomy 2 mins read

The chest area has several names, depending on the context and what aspect you're referring to.

Anatomical Terminology

Anatomically, the chest is referred to as the thorax. The thorax is the part of the body located between the neck and the abdomen in mammals and other tetrapods. It houses vital organs such as the heart and lungs. The thorax also includes the chest wall, which comprises the sternum (breastbone), ribs, and associated muscles. A weakened area in the main artery within the chest is called a thoracic aortic aneurysm. The esophagus, a critical part of the digestive system, is located in the center of the chest. The area between the lungs is called the mediastinum.

Fashion and Aesthetics

In fashion and beauty contexts, the upper chest area, particularly the neckline of a garment, might be referred to as the décolletage. This term specifically describes the low-cut neckline of a dress or top that exposes the upper breasts. The décolletage is also a region of concern for signs of aging, such as wrinkles and age spots.

Medical Context

In medical contexts, the term "chest" is often used generally to refer to the area encompassing the heart and lungs. A doctor might talk about "chest pain" or a "chest X-ray," referring to the entire region within the ribcage. The chest wall, sometimes called the thoracic wall, protects the heart and lungs. Conditions affecting the chest can cause inflammation and pain.

In summary: The term used to describe the chest area depends heavily on the context. While "thorax" is the precise anatomical term, "chest" is commonly used in everyday language and medical settings. For the upper chest area exposed by low-cut clothing, the term "décolletage" is employed.