cartilage
UK[ˈkɑːtɪlɪdʒ]US[ˈkɑːrtɪlɪdʒ]
n
a strong, flexible, connective tissue found in various parts of the body, such as the joints, outer ear, and nose.
Etymology
the word 'cartilage' entered english in the late middle english period, borrowed directly from the latin word 'cartilāgō', meaning 'gristle' or 'cartilage'. the latin term itself is of uncertain origin, though some scholars suggest a possible connection to the proto-indo-european root kert- meaning 'to cut' or 'to pluck', perhaps alluding to the tough, fibrous nature of the tissue. the modern english meaning has remained remarkably faithful to its latin source, specifically denoting the firm, elastic connective tissue in vertebrate bodies. its journey represents a direct lexical adoption, where the specialized anatomical term was preserved without significant morphological breakdown in english.
Analysis
the word 'cartilage' is a simplex loanword from latin. it is not productively segmented into smaller, meaningful morphemes in modern english spelling.
Examples
the surgeon repaired the torn cartilage in the athlete's knee.
the human external ear is supported by a framework of cartilage.
as people age, the cartilage in their joints can wear down, causing discomfort.