braccia

Braccia is the Italian plural of braccio, meaning the arm, the upper limb extending from the shoulder to the hand. The term can refer to the human arm or, in a zoological sense, the forelimbs of animals. In everyday language, braccia are discussed as anatomical, functional, and expressive parts of the body.

Etymology and usage: The word braccio comes from Latin bracchium, with the plural form braccia in Italian. The plural braccia is widely used in ordinary speech, while the singular braccio is used for a single arm. The root also appears in related Italian terms such as abbracciare (to embrace), reflecting the arm’s function in carrying and holding.

Anatomy: In humans, the upper limb consists of the shoulder girdle, the arm (humerus), the forearm (radius and ulna), and the hand (carpals, metacarpals, and phalanges). Major joints include the shoulder (glenohumeral joint), elbow, and wrist. Key muscles include the deltoid, biceps brachii, and triceps brachii, along with numerous forearm flexors and extensors. Nerve supply comes from the brachial plexus, while the vascular supply is mainly the axillary and brachial arteries. The arm functions in precision manipulation, lifting, carrying, and transmitting tactile information through the skin and nerves.

Culture and language: Braccia appear in many Italian expressions, such as prendere tra le braccia (to take something in one’s arms) and avere le braccia aperte (to welcome with open arms). The related verb abbracciare (to embrace) is derived from the same root and highlights the arm’s role in closeness and support.

In medical and anatomical contexts, braccia is used to refer collectively to the upper limbs, often in contrast with legs (gambe) or other body parts.