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Cartilage Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cartilage

[หˆkษ‘หrtษชlษชdส’ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

anatomy structure

Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue found in various parts of the body. It is composed of cells called chondrocytes, which are embedded in a matrix rich in collagen and proteoglycans. This tissue plays a critical role in providing support and cushioning for joints, bones, and other structures. Cartilage is avascular, meaning it does not contain blood vessels, which affects its healing capacity.

Synonyms

chondrin, connective tissue, gristle.

Examples of usage

  • The knee joint is cushioned by cartilage.
  • Cartilage helps reduce friction between bones during movement.
  • The ear is made of elastic cartilage.
  • Damage to the cartilage can lead to joint pain.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Health & Biology

  • Cartilage is crucial in joints where it covers the ends of bones to prevent them from grinding against each other.
  • Unlike bone, cartilage doesn't heal quickly or well when injured due to its limited blood supply.
  • There are different types of cartilage: hyaline (like in joints), elastic (found in ears), and fibrocartilage (in intervertebral discs).

Sports Medicine

  • Athletes often face injuries related to cartilage damage, which can lead to conditions like osteoarthritis as they age.
  • In recent years, regenerative medicine has explored ways to repair or replace damaged cartilage to help athletes recover.

Comparative Anatomy

  • Many animals have cartilage instead of bone as their primary skeletal material, like sharks and rays, allowing them to be lighter and more flexible.
  • Fishes have a skeleton made entirely of cartilage, which is why they can swim so efficiently.

Cultural References

  • In some cultures, the consumption of cartilage-rich dishes is believed to have health benefits, especially for joint health.
  • Certain cartoons and animations anthropomorphize characters with flexible bodies to mimic how cartilage worksโ€”showing how it allows for freedom of movement.

Origin of 'cartilage'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'cartilago', which means 'gristle' or 'supportive tissue'.
  • Historically, it has been associated with the ability to provide structure while remaining flexible.

The word 'cartilage' comes from the Latin term 'cartilago', which means 'cartilage', and is derived from 'caro', meaning 'flesh' or 'meat'. This Latin word is thought to be influenced by the Proto-Indo-European root 'ker', meaning 'horn' or 'horn-like', which relates to the hard and protective nature of cartilage found in certain animal structures. In English, the usage of 'cartilage' dates back to the late 14th century, indicating the historical significance of this tissue in human anatomy and medicine. Its understanding has evolved over the centuries, particularly in the fields of physiology and orthopedics, where the role of cartilage in joint health and disease has become a focal point of study.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,544 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.