Meaning & Definition of word "Tendon"

Tendon

/ˈtɛndən/

noun:

  • 1. A flexible but inelastic cord of strong fibrous collagen tissue that attaches a muscle to a bone.
    • Example: The surgeon repaired the torn tendon in the athlete's elbow.
  • 2. An anatomical structure that serves to transmit the mechanical forces generated by muscle contractions to the skeleton.
    • Example: Overuse can lead to tendonitis, which is inflammation of the tendon.
  • 3. A band of fibrous tissue that may connect a muscle to a muscle or a muscle to a bone.
    • Example: The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel bone.

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin 'tendō', meaning 'to stretch'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

Achilles tendon:

The tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone.

Tendonitis:

Inflammation of a tendon, often due to overuse.

Related Words

muscle:

A tissue in the body that can contract to create movement.

ligament:

A fibrous connective tissue that connects bones to other bones.

Slang Meanings of tendon