symphysis
Americannoun
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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.
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a line of junction or articulation so formed.
noun
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anatomy botany a growing together of parts or structures, such as two bony surfaces joined by an intermediate layer of fibrous cartilage
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a line marking this growing together
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pathol an abnormal adhesion of two or more parts or structures
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
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
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"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
Which of the following are joined by a symphysis?
From Textbooks • Jun. 19, 2013
At a symphysis, the bones are joined by fibrocartilage, which is strong and flexible.
From Textbooks • Jun. 19, 2013
Placing the tip of the scalpel just below the magter's breast bone, she made the long continuous post-mortem incision down to the pubic symphysis.
From Sense of Obligation by Henry Maxwell Dempsey (AKA Harry Harrison)
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
