Long bones: length is greater than the diameter found in the limbs. Bones commonly found in the appendicular skeleton, consisting of a diaphysis and an epiphysis.
Short bones: approximately equivalent dimensions found in the carpus, metacarpus and tarsus, metatarsus.
Flat bones: e.g scapula and many bones in the skull where they surround and protect the eye, ear, sinuses, and brain and they are found in the pelvis where they provide for the attachment of muscles and long bones.
Irregular bones: short and multiple bones e.g. vertebrae and all bones of the skull that are not of the flat type, and three parts of the hip bone.
Sesamoid bones: small bones within tendons e.g. knee cap (patella). Small cuboidal shaped bones associated with tendons and ligaments. These bone reduce wear and tear on the tendons and as they pass over a articulation or prominence.