labrum

noun

la·​brum ˈlā-brəm 

1

: an upper or anterior mouthpart of an arthropod consisting of a single median piece in front of or above the mandibles

2

: a ring of fibrous cartilage forming the margin of the shallow cavity of the upper part of the scapula by which the humerus articulates with the shoulder girdle

Examples of labrum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Glover began the year recovering from surgery for a torn labrum in his left shoulder, and to put together a round like his 63 was encouraging to know good golf is still in there. — ABC News, 2 July 2026

Ndiaye’s season ended early after surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder. — Lauren Williams, AJC.com, 30 June 2026

Though a torn labrum did not help matters, the challenges of transitioning to being a pitcher led to retiring as a player. — Tom Layberger, Forbes.com, 27 June 2026

Senior ace Shae Johnson, who led Mundelein to state in 2024 but was unable to pitch last season after suffering a torn labrum in her throwing shoulder, allowed three runs on six hits and one walk. — Bobby Narang, Chicago Tribune, 6 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, lip, edge — more at lip

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for labrum

• candelabrum

Kids Definition

labrum

noun

la·​brum ˈlā-brəm 

: the upper mouthpart of an arthropod in front of or above the mandibles

Medical Definition

labrum

noun

la·​brum ˈlā-brəm 

plural labra -brə 

1

: an upper or anterior mouthpart of an arthropod consisting of a single median piece in front of or above the mandibles

2

: a fibrous ring of cartilage attached to the rim of a joint: as

a

: glenoid labrum

b

: acetabular labrum