Definition

A condition where bones or parts of bones become fused together, leading to stiffness and immobility in a joint, often due to disease or injury.

Example

The patient was diagnosed with ankylosis, which limited their joint movement significantly.

Conversation

I read an article about ankylosis and how it affects mobility.

Oh really? What did it say about it?

It mentioned that it can happen after surgery or injuries, causing stiffness.

That sounds tough; I can’t imagine dealing with such a limitation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ankylosis is derived from the Greek word "ankylos" (meaning bent or crooked) and the suffix "-osis" (meaning condition or process). The term refers to a condition characterized by the stiffening or immobility of a joint due to abnormal adhesion and rigidity of the bones.

Memory Tip

Imagine a joint that is 'bent' or 'crooked' ('ankylos') and has a 'condition' ('-osis') that makes it stiff and immobile. This helps you remember that ankylosis refers to the stiffening of a joint.

Visually Confused Words