Definition

The small, flat bone that forms the front of the knee joint, also known as the patella.

Example

He injured his kneepan while playing soccer.

Conversation

I think I bruised my kneepan while playing soccer yesterday.

Ouch! That sounds painful, how did it happen?

I fell hard when I was trying to score a goal.

You should definitely ice it; that might help with the swelling.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Kneepan → The word is formed from "knee" (from Old English "cneow", meaning the joint of the leg) and "pan" (from Old English "panna", meaning a shallow container). The term "kneepan" refers to a shallow container or covering for the knee joint.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'knee' as the joint of the leg and 'pan' as a shallow container — a kneepan is like a protective covering for the knee.

Visually Confused Words