cartilaginous

adjective

car·​ti·​lag·​i·​nous ˌkär-tə-ˈla-jə-nəs How to pronounce cartilaginous (audio)
: composed of, relating to, or resembling cartilage
The external nose has a cartilaginous framework.

Examples of cartilaginous in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
An epoxy compound is concocted to replace discs between vertebrae and other cartilaginous elements, so the animal returns to its original dimensions and structure. Jeff Wilson, Outdoor Life, 11 Mar. 2026 Her sentences themselves have a cartilaginous magic. Literary Hub, 10 Feb. 2026 But there’s also a range: Mochi is softer yet still bounces off the teeth, while pig ears have a cartilaginous crunch. Cathy Erway, Saveur, 6 Aug. 2025 Sharks have a skin that's smooth in one direction but rough if stroked in the opposite orientation, and their cartilaginous skeleton isn't as solid as the bone most other vertebrates rely on. ArsTechnica, 22 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for cartilaginous

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cartilaginous was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Cartilaginous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cartilaginous. Accessed 20 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

cartilaginous

adjective
car·​ti·​lag·​i·​nous ˌkärt-ᵊl-ˈaj-ə-nəs How to pronounce cartilaginous (audio)
: of, relating to, or resembling cartilage

Medical Definition

cartilaginous

adjective
car·​ti·​lag·​i·​nous -nəs How to pronounce cartilaginous (audio)
: composed of, relating to, or resembling cartilage

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