What does symphysis mean?
A symphysis is a specialized anatomical joint in which two bones are connected by a layer of tough, resilient fibrocartilage. Unlike a completely immobile joint, a symphysis permits a small amount of movement while providing stability and helping distribute mechanical stress. The best-known example is the pubic symphysis, which joins the left and right pubic bones at the front of the pelvis and allows slight separation during childbirth. The term also appears in the names of other anatomical unions, including the mandibular symphysis at the lower jaw. “Symphysis” comes from a Greek word meaning a natural joining or growing together, reflecting the close union of the bones involved. In medical writing, the word distinguishes this fibrocartilaginous type of joint from synchondroses, which use hyaline cartilage, and syndesmoses, which use fibrous connective tissue.
nounAn anatomical joint in which two bones are joined by fibrocartilage, allowing limited movement. The pubic symphysis, which connects the two pubic bones, is a familiar example.
- A cartilaginous joint in which two bones are connected by fibrocartilage and can move only slightly.
"The pubic symphysis contains a fibrocartilaginous disc that permits slight movement during childbirth."
"Pain in the pubic symphysis can occur during pregnancy as the joint adapts to childbirth."
"The mandibular symphysis is the fibrous union at the lower jaw, although it is not a movable symphysis in the strict anatomical sense."
The standard plural adds “-es” and is used mainly in anatomical and medical writing.
"Injuries to the pubic symphyses can occur in contact sports."
A symphysis is a joint that keeps the body connected without locking it completely rigid—just enough to move and absorb pressure.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does symphysis come from?
The word comes from Greek symphysis, meaning a joining together or natural union. It is related to Greek syn-, meaning “together,” and physis, meaning “growth” or “nature.” Through later scientific terminology, the word was applied to joints whose adjoining bones are united by cartilage or other connecting tissue.
Related word forms
How symphysis is actually used
The term is chiefly used in anatomy and specialist medicine. It is not normally used in general conversation, and plural forms ending in “-es” may be unfamiliar to readers.
Easily confused with symphysis
A synchondrosis joins bones with hyaline cartilage, whereas a symphysis joins them with fibrocartilage.
A syndesmosis is a fibrous joint whose bones are connected by dense fibrous tissue, while a symphysis is a cartilaginous joint.