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Patella Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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patella

[pəˈtɛlə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

anatomy

The patella is a small flat triangular bone in front of the knee that protects the knee joint and provides leverage for the thigh muscles.

Synonyms

knee bone, kneecap.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
patella

Patella is a medical term often used by healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and physiotherapists.

  • The doctor examined the patient's patella to check for any dislocation.
  • Patella fractures can be quite painful and require immediate medical attention.
kneecap

Kneecap is a term that is commonly understood by most people and used in everyday language.

  • During the fall, she injured her kneecap, and it was swollen for days.
  • Wearing proper knee pads can protect your kneecaps while skating.
knee bone

This phrase is used more casually or informally when referring to the patella in everyday conversation.

  • I hit my knee bone really hard on the table, and now it hurts to walk.
  • She bruised her knee bone while playing soccer.

Examples of usage

  • The patella helps to protect the knee joint from injuries.
  • Strong thigh muscles are essential for the proper functioning of the patella.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Anatomy

  • The patella is also known as the kneecap, forming a shield for the joint beneath it.
  • It plays a crucial role in leg movement, acting as a lever for the thigh muscles to lift the leg more effectively.

Cultural References

  • The patella is commonly featured in discussions about sports medicine, especially in knee injuries among athletes.
  • In art, some depictions of the human body highlight the patella to emphasize balance and movement.

Health

  • Common injuries related to the patella include dislocations and fractures, often resulting from falls or sports.
  • Strengthening exercises for the muscles around the knee can help protect the patella and improve overall joint function.

Evolutionary Biology

  • Some researchers suggest the patella is an evolutionary adaptation that allows for a more efficient bipedal gait.
  • Different mammals have varying patella shapes that reflect their specific locomotion styles, such as running or climbing.

Origin of 'patella'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'patella' comes from Latin, meaning 'small dish,' which describes its shape.
  • The word has been used in medical texts since the 17th century, highlighting its importance in anatomy.

The word patella comes from the Latin word patella, which means 'small dish' or 'pan'. It was first used in English in the mid-17th century to refer to the small bone in front of the knee. The patella is an important bone in the human body, providing protection to the knee joint and aiding in the movement of the leg.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,409, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.