Patella
/pəˈtɛl.ə/noun
The small, flat, circular bone in the knee that protects the joint.
Did you know?The patella has been revered in ancient cultures for its role in mobility and protection, often linked to the goddess of wisdom, Athena, in Greek mythology.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
patella
“A small dish or plate.”
Early 16th Century
Medieval Latin
patella
“Referring to the anatomical structure resembling a dish.”
17th Century
English
patella
“Adopted in medical terminology to denote the kneecap.”
Modern English
English
patella
“The established term for the bone in the knee, maintaining its original form.”