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labrum

noun

la·​brum ˈlā-brəm How to pronounce labrum (audio)
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
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.
Meyer underwent surgery for a labrum tear in his left hip last June, ending his season after 12 starts. Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 21 Nov. 2025 During a match against Rhea Ripley, Morgan suffered a labrum tear in her shoulder. Andrew Ravens‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Oct. 2025 But unbeknownst to anyone, Annett was playing with a torn labrum. Richard Dunn, Oc Register, 16 Oct. 2025 Carter missed summer league, training camp and the start of his rookie season after undergoing surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder in July 2024. Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 15 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for labrum

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of labrum was in 1578

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Labrum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/labrum. Accessed 29 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

labrum

noun
la·​brum ˈlā-brəm How to pronounce labrum (audio)
: the upper mouthpart of an arthropod in front of or above the mandibles

Medical Definition

labrum

noun
la·​brum ˈlā-brəm How to pronounce labrum (audio)
plural labra -brə How to pronounce labrum (audio)
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
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