Definition

A bony projection on the upper part of the thigh bone in many animals, which serves as an attachment point for muscles.

Example

The surgeon pointed out the trochanter during the hip surgery.

Conversation

I was reading about the human body, and I came across the term trochanter.

Oh really? What does that refer to exactly?

It's actually a bony prominence on the femur that helps muscles attach.

That’s interesting! I didn’t know that about the thigh bone.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Trochanter → The word comes from the Greek "trochanter" (τροχάντης), meaning a runner or a wheel. In anatomy, it refers to the bony prominence on the femur where muscles attach, resembling a wheel in its function of facilitating movement.

Memory Tip

Imagine a wheel ('trochanter' relates to a runner or wheel) that helps in movement — this helps you remember that a trochanter is a part of the bone that aids in motion.

Visually Confused Words