The hyoid bone is a unique structure in the human body for many reasons. ... Famously, the hyoid bone is the only bone in humans that does not articulate with any other bone, but only has muscular, ligamentous, and cartilaginous attachments. Given this peculiarity, it has been described as “free floating” [1].

Why is the hyoid bone unique quizlet?

a unique component of the axial skeleton because it does not articulate with any other bone. ... The hyoid bone is the only bone of the body that does not articulate with any other bone.

Why is the hyoid bone significant?

Together with its attached muscles, the hyoid bone has two important functions: it holds up the tongue, which sits above it, and it holds up the larynx, which hangs below it. It also transmits the force of muscles that help to open the jaw.