How Do You Spell ELLIPSOIDAL JOINT?

1. An ellipsoidal joint, also known as a condyloid joint, is a type of synovial joint found in the human body. It is characterized by its structure, which allows movement in multiple planes. An ellipsoidal joint consists of two bones that fit into each other, similar to a ball and socket joint, but with a slightly flattened surface. This creates a shape resembling an ellipsoid, hence the name.

   The bones in an ellipsoidal joint have concave and convex surfaces that interlock, providing stability and allowing a wide range of movement. The concave surface of one bone fits into the convex surface of the other bone, forming a pivot point for articulation. Ligaments surround the joint, providing additional support and ensuring proper alignment.

   The ellipsoidal joint enables movement in two planes. It allows flexion and extension, allowing the joint to bend or straighten, and also permits abduction and adduction, enabling movement away from or toward the midline of the body. While an ellipsoidal joint allows for these types of movement, it restricts rotation, unlike a true ball and socket joint.

   Examples of ellipsoidal joints in the human body include the wrists and the metacarpophalangeal joints in the hand. These joints provide a combination of mobility and stability, allowing for precision movements and fine motor skills.

   In summary, an ellipsoidal joint is a synovial joint characterized by its ellipsoid shape, forming a pivot point between two bones. It allows for flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction, offering a balance of movement and stability in various parts of the body.

2. A joint in which there are two axes of motion at right angles to each other, but both passing through the same bone; distinguished from a saddle j.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for ELLIPSOIDAL JOINT

The word "ellipsoidal joint" is derived from the words "ellipse" and "joint". Here is a breakdown of the etymology of each component:

1. Ellipse: The term "ellipse" originates from the Latin word "ellipsis", which means "a falling short" or "deficiency". It came into English via the French word "ellipse", which referred to a geometric curve, specifically a closed curve resembling an elongated circle. The Latin word itself traces back to the Greek word "elleipsis" meaning "omission" or "fault". The shape of an ellipse is characterized by its two foci and the sum of the distances from any point on the curve to the two foci remains constant.

2. Joint: The term "joint" has roots in Old French and Latin. In Old French, the word "joint" meant "a joining" or "point of junction".