symphysis

[ sim-fuh-sis ]

noun

, Anatomy, Zoology.

, plural sym·phy·ses [sim, -f, uh, -seez].

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.

symphysis

/ ˈsɪmfɪsɪs; sɪmˈfɪstɪk; 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

Derived Forms

• symphystic, adjective
• symphysial, adjective

Other Words From

• sym·phys·tic [sim-, fis, -tik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of symphysis¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of symphysis¹

C16: via New Latin from Greek sumphusis, from sumphuein, from syn- + phuein to grow

Example Sentences

He is supposed to have introduced the term "symphysis," and he described nearly every bone in the human body.

From Project Gutenberg

The reader will bear in mind that they are naturally connected by the cartilaginous substance which forms the symphysis.

From Project Gutenberg

The masticatory organs of Arthropods were jaws disjointed at their symphysis; antennæ, nostrils turned outside in.

From Project Gutenberg

The inner surface of the jaw at the point of the suture or symphysis, forms a line obliquely directed upwards.

From Project Gutenberg

Each half of the lower jaw consists of four elements, covering Meckel's cartilage, which is ossified at the symphysis.

From Project Gutenberg