Dictionary Definition
symphysis
Noun
1 an abnormal adhesion of two or more
structures
2 a growing together of parts or structures
[also: symphyses
(pl)]
User Contributed Dictionary
English
Noun
- The process of two, originally separate bones growing together as the mammalian subject matures, as with the pubic bones or lower jawbones in humans.
- A line discernable on x-ray showing such fusion.
- The cartilaginous material that adjoins and facilitates the junction of such bones, with or without synovia.
Extensive Definition
A symphysis is a fibrocartilaginous fusion
between two bones. It is a type of cartilaginous
joint.
Unlike synchondroses, symphyses
are permanent.
Examples
The more prominent symphyses are:- the pubic symphysis
- the symphyses between the bones of the skull, most notably the mandible (symphysis menti)
- sacrococcygeal symphysis
symphysis in German: Symphyse
symphysis in Low German: Symphys
symphysis in Slovak: Symfýza