SESAMOID Meaning and
Definition
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Sesamoid refers to a type of bone that is embedded within a tendon or muscle, resembling the shape and size of a sesame seed. It derived its name from the term "sesame" because of their similar appearance. These small, round, and smooth bones are commonly found near joints, where they serve a protective and functional role.
Sesamoids are typically present in areas where tendons must endure significant pressure or friction, such as the hands, feet, and knees. These bones aid in reducing the amount of friction between tendons and bones, as well as providing leverage to tendons, enhancing their mechanical advantage. By their location and function, sesamoid bones help to stabilize joints, protect tendons from damage, and improve joint mobility and range of motion.
While the sesamoid bones occur naturally in certain individuals, they can also develop due to repeated stress or pressure on a tendon, as a protective response from the body. For example, some individuals may possess an accessory or additional sesamoid bone that forms in response to excessive strain on a particular tendon. These accessory sesamoids can vary in size and shape.
Sesamoid bones are commonly found in the base of the big toe, known as the metatarsophalangeal joint, and also underneath the kneecap or patella. In summary, sesamoid bones are small, rounded bones embedded within tendons that provide stability, reduce friction, and improve joint function in specific areas of the body.
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Resembling in size or shape a grain of sesame.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Applied to the small bones formed at the articulations of the great toes, and sometimes at the joints of the thumbs, and to small bodies in the valves of the aorta and pulmonary artery.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SESAMOID
Etymology of SESAMOID
The word "sesamoid" derives from the Greek word "sésamoeidḗs" (σησαμοειδής), which is a combination of "sésamon" (σήσαμον) meaning "sesame" and "-oeidḗs" (-οειδής) meaning "resembling".
"Sésamon" comes from the Proto-Indo-European root "*seh₁s-" meaning "to consume" or "to devour". This root gave rise to various related words in different Indo-European languages, including Sanskrit "sasya" meaning "to eat" and Old High German "sēcchen" meaning "to seek food".
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