What is the name of the inferior portion of the sternum?

The inferior portion of the sternum is known as the xiphoid process. This small, cartilaginous structure is located at the lower end of the sternum and can often be palpated in the midline of the chest below the body of the sternum. It serves as an important anatomical landmark and provides attachment for the diaphragm and abdominal muscles, playing a role in the mechanics of breathing and core stability.

The manubrium is the upper part of the sternum, while the body of the sternum is the large, central part that connects to the ribs via costal cartilage. The sternocleidomastoid, on the other hand, is a muscle in the neck and is not part of the sternum itself. Costal cartilage connects the front ends of the ribs to the sternum, aiding in the flexibility and expansion of the chest during respiration, but does not refer specifically to any part of the sternum. Recognizing these distinctions helps clarify the structural and functional roles of each component in the thoracic region.