Bursa Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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bursa
[ˈbɜːrsə ]
Definitions
anatomy
A bursa is a small, fluid-filled sac that provides a cushion between bones and tendons or muscles around joints. It helps reduce friction and allows for smooth movement in areas where there is potential for friction. Bursae are found throughout the body but are most commonly located near joints such as the shoulder, elbow, and knee.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The bursa in my shoulder is inflamed.
- Injury to the knee can affect the bursa.
- Doctors often inject medication directly into the bursa for treatment.
finance
Bursa can also refer to a stock exchange or marketplace, particularly in certain countries. It is a platform where securities, commodities, and other financial instruments are traded. The term is commonly associated with the Bursa Malaysia, which is the main stock exchange in Malaysia.
Synonyms
exchange, market, stock market.
Examples of usage
- Investors are closely watching the Bursa.
- The Bursa Malaysia has seen significant growth.
- Trading on the Bursa can be volatile.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Anatomy
- There are over 150 bursae located in your body, especially in the shoulders, elbows, and knees.
- Bursae contain synovial fluid that lubricates joints to allow for smooth movement and to cushion the surrounding tendons and muscles.
Health & Medicine
- Inflammation of a bursa, known as bursitis, can lead to pain and restricted movement and is often caused by repetitive motion or injury.
- Keeping the bursae healthy is important for overall joint function, and physical therapy may help alleviate symptoms of bursitis.
Sports & Exercise
- Athletes are particularly susceptible to bursitis due to intense physical activity, often requiring adequate warm-up to prevent strain.
- Certain sports, like running and tennis, place extra stress on specific bursae, making injuries more common in these areas.
Pop Culture
- Though bursae aren't commonly discussed, they pop up in health documentaries that explore the anatomy of human movement.
- References to bursitis can occasionally be found in humorous contexts in films, highlighting the struggles of aging athletes.
Origin of 'bursa'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from Latin 'bursa', meaning 'purse' or 'bag', referring to its sack-like structure.
- In ancient medicine, the term was used to describe various bodily cavities that hold fluids.
The word 'bursa' originates from the Latin term 'bursa', which means 'purse' or 'wallet'. This term was likely adopted into medical terminology in reference to the bursa's shape and function, similar to a little pouch containing fluid, akin to a purse holding money. Medical documents from antiquity made use of this term when describing areas of fluid-filled sacs that protect joints in human anatomy. Over time, the use of 'bursa' expanded beyond anatomy to financial contexts, particularly in the 19th century, where it was used to describe marketplaces for trading stocks and commodities, reflecting the idea of a space where resources are exchanged, similar to its original meaning of a container for valuables.