Langimage
English

patella

|pa-tel-la|

B2

/pəˈtɛlə/

kneecap

Etymology
Etymology Information

'patella' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'patella,' where 'patella' meant 'small pan or dish.'

Historical Evolution

'patella' changed from the Latin word 'patella' and has remained largely unchanged in modern English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'small pan or dish,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'kneecap.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the kneecap; a small flat triangular bone in front of the knee joint.

The patella protects the knee joint.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35