Kostalbrjóska

Kostalbrjóska is a term of Icelandic origin. It literally translates to "bone of cost" or "bone of expense." The term is most commonly used to refer to the clavicle, also known as the collarbone. This bone is part of the shoulder girdle and connects the sternum to the scapula. Its location makes it relatively vulnerable to fracture, and such fractures can be painful and require medical attention, hence the association with "cost" or "expense."

The etymology of kostalbrjóska suggests a practical understanding of anatomy and potential injury within the Icelandic language. While modern medical terminology uses more direct anatomical names, the older Icelandic term persists in some contexts. It highlights how everyday language can reflect common experiences and observations related to the human body. The clavicle's prominence and susceptibility to injury likely contributed to it being singled out with a descriptive, albeit somewhat archaic, name.