Cartilage

/ˈkɑːrtɪlɪdʒ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A firm, flexible connective tissue found in various parts of the body, including joints, the rib cage, ear, nose, bronchial tubes, and intervertebral discs.
The cartilage in the knee allows for smooth movement between the bones.
The tissue that is replaced by bone during development; often found in young animals.
In infants, the skeleton is largely made up of cartilage, which later ossifies into bone.
A structure similar to cartilage, such as the tissue that forms the flexible parts of the ear.
The outer ear is primarily composed of cartilage, giving it both shape and flexibility.

Etymology

From Middle English 'cartilage', from Old French 'cartilage', from Latin 'cartilago'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

cartilage repair:
Refer to medical procedures aimed at healing or replacing damaged cartilage.
joint cartilage:
Refers to the cartilage that covers and cushions joints.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Refers to something that is old or worn out but still functioning.
That old car might have a lot of mileage, but it's still got some cartilage left!
Used to describe a person who is very flexible or resilient.
That gymnast is all cartilage, she can bend in ways that seem impossible.