: a rib (such as one of either of the last two pairs in humans) that has no attachment to the sternum compare false rib
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the WebSkin farther up the neck to remove the neck meat, if desired. Find the floating rib, between the back of the chest cavity and forward of the hip bone. Will Brantley, Field & Stream, 20 Nov. 2020
Word History
First Known Use
1831, in the meaning defined above
Medical Definition
floating rib
noun
: any rib in the last two pairs of human ribs that have no attachment to the sternum compare false rib