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

/ 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

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

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

Detroit is describing the injury as a sprain of the pubic symphysis, and trainer Kevin Rand said he was “very encouraged” by the fact that Davis was feeling pretty good before the game Sunday.

From Washington Times

The state of the pubic symphysis and teeth and dental area placed Bob somewhere in his mid-thirties and the bone length suggested he stood around 1.7 meters tall.

From Scientific American

A form of articulation in which the bones are connected by intervening substance admitting slight motion; symphysis.

From Project Gutenberg

The horizontal ramus, long, straight, and compressed, gradually narrows towards the symphysis, where it expands laterally to form with the ankylosed opposite ramus the wide, semicircular, shallow alveolar border for the incisor teeth.

From Project Gutenberg