symphysis

American  

[sim-fuh-sis] / ˈsɪm fə sɪs /

noun

Anatomy, Zoology.

plural

symphyses

1. the growing together, or the fixed or nearly fixed union, of bones, as that of the two halves of the lower jaw in humans or of the pubic bones in the anterior part of the pelvic girdle.

2. a line of junction or articulation so formed.

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symphysis British  

/ sɪmˈfɪstɪk, ˈsɪmfɪsɪs, sɪmˈfɪzɪəl /

noun

1. anatomy botany a growing together of parts or structures, such as two bony surfaces joined by an intermediate layer of fibrous cartilage

2. a line marking this growing together

3. pathol an abnormal adhesion of two or more parts or structures

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Other Word Forms

• symphysial adjective
• symphystic adjective

Etymology

Origin of symphysis

1570–80; < New Latin < Greek sýmphysis a growing together, equivalent to sym- sym- + phýsis, equivalent to phy-, stem of phȳ́ein to grow ( see be) + -sis -sis

Example Sentences

"When I saw the incomplete mandibular symphysis, I was genuinely excited," says Professor Benoit.

From Science Daily • Apr. 14, 2026

Specifically, "These features include the presence of four post-canine teeth, a larger lower canine, and a fused and short mandibular symphysis," according to a press release.

From Salon • Aug. 15, 2024

A symphysis is where the bones are joined by fibrocartilage and the gap between the bones may be narrow or wide.

From Textbooks • Jun. 19, 2013

At a symphysis, the bones are joined by fibrocartilage, which is strong and flexible.

From Textbooks • Jun. 19, 2013

The two arms of the furcula in pouters diverge less, proportionally to their length, than in the rock-pigeon; and the symphysis is more solid and pointed.

From The Variation of Animals and Plants Under Domestication, Vol. I. by Darwin, Charles