Which term refers to a pitlike depression on a bone?

The term that refers to a pitlike depression on a bone is "fovea." In anatomical terminology, a fovea is typically a small, shallow indentation that serves various functions, such as providing an attachment point for ligaments or tendons, or allowing the passage of nerves and blood vessels in certain circumstances.

To further understand this, it's important to differentiate it from other similar terms. A fossa is generally a larger, deeper depression on a bone compared to a fovea, often serving as a socket or cavity for articulation with other bones. A meatus refers to a natural body opening or canal, such as the ear canal, and is characterized by its tubular structure rather than a depression. A canal, in anatomical terms, often describes a passageway that can be either external or internal, enabling movement through a structure, but it does not specifically denote a pitlike depression.

Thus, the definition and characteristics of a fovea align with the description of a pitlike depression on a bone, making it the correct choice.