trochlea

noun

troch·​lea ˈträ-klē-ə 

: an anatomical structure that is held to resemble a pulley

especially : the articular surface on the medial condyle of the humerus that articulates with the ulna

Examples of trochlea in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Damage to the trochlea can cause pain, instability and other problems with the knee, the website said. —Jason Beede, Orlando Sentinel, 28 Feb. 2025

The trochlea is a groove in the lower end of the femur that guides the kneecap during knee movements, according to drrobertlaprademd.com. —Jason Beede, Orlando Sentinel, 28 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, block of pulleys, from Greek trochileia, from trochilos sheave, from trochos wheel

First Known Use

circa 1693, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for trochlea

• cochlea

Medical Definition

trochlea

noun

troch·​lea ˈträk-lē-ə 

: an anatomical structure resembling a pulley: as

a

: the articular surface on the medial condyle of the humerus that articulates with the ulna

b

: the fibrous ring in the inner upper part of the orbit through which the tendon of the superior oblique muscle of the eye passes