The posterior segment, or extremity, of the sternum; sometimes called metasternum, ensiform cartilage, ensiform process, or xiphoid process. The posterior and smallest of the three divisions of the sternum, below the gladiolus and the manubrium. Also called xiphoid, xiphoid process. Relating to the xiphoid process (the cartilage at the lower end of the sternum) and the ribs. Pain of a neuralgic character, in the region of the xiphoid cartilage (connective tissue at the inferior aspect of the sternal body or chest area). 1. Sword-shaped; ensiform (having sharp edges and tapering to a slender point, having a shape suggesting a sword). 2. The pointed process of cartilage, supported by a core of bone, connected with the lower end of the body of the sternum.Composed of cartilage at the inferior aspect of the sternal body. A pointed cartilage attached to the lower end of the breastbone or sternum, the smallest and lowest division of the sternum. Cartilaginous early in life, it may become ossified (bony) in adults. It is sometimes simply called the xiphoid. Also known as the ensiform cartilage or process. The ancient Greeks thought the xiphoid looked like the tip of a sword. The word xiphoid is from the Greek xiphos, "straight sword" plus eidos, "like" resulting in "straight sword". Ensiform is from the Latin ensis, "sword" plus forma, "shape" equals "sword shape". Pain of a neuralgic character, in the region of the xiphoid cartilage (the cartilage at the lower end of the sternum); also, xiphodynia. Inflammation of the ensiform or xiphoid cartilage. The surgical separation of conjoined twins united at the xiphoid. Equal conjoined twins united at the brest bone, particularly at the xiphoid process. Having sword-shaped leaves.