Patella - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
The patella, or kneecap, is a small, flat, triangular bone located in front of the knee joint. It protects the knee and helps with movement by providing leverage for the thigh muscles.
Definition:
The kneecap, a small flat bone protecting the knee joint.
Synonyms:
kneecap, rotula
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
(No direct antonyms; anatomical terms rarely have opposites)
Common Collocations:
fractured patella, patella dislocation, patella tendon
Derivatives:
patellar, patellectomy
Usage Tips:
Use "patella" in medical or anatomical contexts to refer specifically to the kneecap.
Common Phrases:
(No common idioms; technical term)
Etymology:
From Latin "patella," meaning "small pan" or "kneecap," due to its shape.
Examples:
- 1. The doctor examined her swollen patella after the fall.
- 2. He injured his patella while playing soccer yesterday.
- 3. The patella protects the knee joint from impact.
- 4. She felt pain under her patella when climbing stairs.