anatomy

Last reviewed 01/2018

Anatomy is the science of studying the structure of living organisms. In medicine, this is taken to refer to the study of human structure, form and its inextricable relationship to function. It is a discipline that can be traced back to ancient Egypt, although celebrated Greek scientist Aristotle was the first person use the term 'anatome'. This literally meant, "the act of cutting up" - dissection is still the most valuable practice for aspiring students of anatomy.

Morphology is a term that strictly relates to the study of anatomy between species.

Embryology is the science of developmental anatomy.