Talus
/ˈtæl.əs/noun
The anatomical term for the ankle bone in humans and other vertebrates.
Did you know?The term 'talus' is derived from Latin and is linked to the ancient belief in bones as carriers of fate and fortune.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*del-
“to divide or cut, relating to the structure of bones.”
Latin
Latin
talus
“ankle, ankle bone; also used metaphorically for the base or foundation.”
Old French
Old French
talus
“referring to the ankle or a supporting structure.”
Middle English
English
talus
“adopted from Old French to denote the ankle bone.”
Modern English
English
talus
“the specific term for the bone in the ankle joint.”