Definition of cartilage
1 : a usually translucent (see translucent 1) somewhat elastic tissue that composes most of the skeleton of vertebrate embryos and except for a small number of structures (such as some joints, respiratory passages, and the external ear) is replaced by bone during ossification in the higher vertebrates
2 : a part or structure composed of cartilage
From the M-W Editors
Examples of cartilage in a Sentence
She fell and damaged some cartilage in her knee.
Recent Examples of cartilage from the Web
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Lohan posted a photo to Instagram while yachting in Cannes in which she's seen rocking a cold-shoulder blue and white stripe top (the epitome of a yachting ensemble) and a cartilage earring.
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OA, which occurs when wear and tear on the joints degrades cartilage and leads to bone abnormalities, is extremely common in people 60 and older.
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Righty reliever Junichi Tazawa (rib cartilage inflammation) finished a bullpen session feeling strong Monday and could be in line for a rehabilitation assignment soon.
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Two days after a runner-up finish at the Masters, Woods has arthroscopic surgery to repair cartilage damage.
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A digital image or print shows distinctive shapes, ridges made of cartilage.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'cartilage'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of cartilage
Middle English, from Latin cartilagin-, cartilago
First Known Use: 15th century
Other Anatomy Terms
CARTILAGE Defined for English Language Learners
cartilage
playDefinition of cartilage for English Language Learners
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: a strong but flexible material found in some parts of the body (such as the nose, the outer ear, and some joints)
CARTILAGE Defined for Kids
cartilage
playDefinition of cartilage for Students
: tough flexible tissue that makes up most of the skeleton of vertebrates during early development and except for in a few places in the body (as the nose or outer ear) is replaced by bone
Medical Dictionary
cartilage
playMedical Definition of cartilage
1: a usually translucent somewhat elastic tissue that composes most of the skeleton of vertebrate embryos and except for a small number of structures (as some joints, respiratory passages, and the external ear) is replaced by bone during ossification in the higher vertebrates
2: a part or structure composed of cartilage
Learn More about cartilage
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Spanish Central: Translation of cartilage Nglish: Translation of cartilage for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of cartilage for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cartilage
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