cartilage

[ kahr-tl-ij, kahrt-lij ]
/ ˈkɑr tl ɪdʒ, ˈkɑrt lɪdʒ /

noun Anatomy, Zoology.

a firm, elastic, flexible type of connective tissue of a translucent whitish or yellowish color; gristle.
a part or structure composed of cartilage.

Origin of cartilage

1350–1400; Middle English (< Middle French) < Latin cartilāgō gristle

Example sentences from the Web for cartilage

British Dictionary definitions for cartilage

cartilage
/ (ˈkɑːtɪlɪdʒ, ˈkɑːtlɪdʒ) /

noun

a tough elastic tissue composing most of the embryonic skeleton of vertebrates. In the adults of higher vertebrates it is mostly converted into bone, remaining only on the articulating ends of bones, in the thorax, trachea, nose, and ears Nontechnical name: gristle

Derived forms of cartilage

cartilaginous (ˌkɑːtɪˈlædʒɪnəs), adjective

Word Origin for cartilage

C16: from Latin cartilāgō

Medical definitions for cartilage

cartilage
[ kärtl-ĭj ]

n.

A tough, elastic, fibrous connective tissue that is a major constituent of embryonic and young vertebrate skeletons, is converted largely to bone with maturation, and is found in various parts of the adult body, such as the joints, outer ear, and larynx.

Scientific definitions for cartilage

cartilage
[ kärtl-ĭj ]

A strong, flexible connective tissue that is found in various parts of the body, including the joints, the outer ear, and the larynx. During the embryonic development of most vertebrates, the skeleton forms as cartilage before most of it hardens into bone. In cartilaginous fish, the mature fish retains a skeleton made of cartilage.

Cultural definitions for cartilage

cartilage
[ (kahr-tl-ij) ]

A kind of tough but elastic connective tissue that can withstand considerable pressure. It makes up portions of the skeletal system, such as the linings of the joints, where it cushions against shock. Cartilage is also found in other body structures, such as the nose and external ear.