tendon

noun

ten·​don ˈten-dən 

: a tough cord or band of dense white fibrous connective tissue that unites a muscle with some other part (such as a bone) and transmits the force which the muscle exerts

Examples of tendon in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Calf problems can lead to more serious injuries, such as a torn Achilles tendon. — Geoff Clark Outkick, FOXNews.com, 19 June 2026

The most vulnerable area for injury in a growing body is the growth area, and that includes where tendons attach to bone, like in the knee. — Nicole Williams, AJC.com, 22 June 2026

This pair also features plenty of cushioning and a wide, stable base to help reduce strain on the feet and Achilles tendon. — Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 22 June 2026

Tatum missed 66 games while recovering from a torn right Achilles tendon, leaving Brown in the top role for the first time in his career. — Jay King, New York Times, 1 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Medieval Latin tendōn-, tendō, probably derivative of Latin tendere "to extend outward, stretch" after Greek tenont-, ténōn "sinew, tendon," from ten-, variant stem of teínein "to stretch, extend" + -ont-, -ōn, deverbal noun suffix — more at tender entry 3

First Known Use

1541, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing tendon

• Achilles tendon
• tendon of Achilles

Kids Definition

tendon

noun

ten·​don ˈten-dən 

: a tough cord or band of dense white connective tissue that links a muscle to some other part (as a bone)

Medical Definition

tendon

noun

ten·​don ˈten-dən 

: a tough cord or band of dense white fibrous connective tissue that unites a muscle with some other part, transmits the force which the muscle exerts, and is continuous with the connective-tissue epimysium and perimysium of the muscle and when inserted into a bone with the periosteum of the bone