늑골, or "ribs" in English, are the curved bones that form the rib cage in humans and many animals. They protect vital organs such as the heart and lungs and play a crucial role in the respiratory system by allowing the chest to expand and contract during breathing. In humans, there are typically 12 pairs of 늑골, which are categorized into true ribs, false ribs, and floating ribs. Each rib connects to the spine at the back and, in the front, most connect to the sternum, or breastbone, through cartilage, providing flexibility and support.