Langimage
English

ancylose

|an-cy-lose|

C2

🇺🇸

/ˈæn.sɪˌloʊz/

🇬🇧

/ˈæn.sɪˌləʊz/

to stiffen or fuse (a joint)

Etymology
Etymology Information

'ancylose' originates from French, specifically the word 'ankyloser,' which is derived from Greek 'ankylos,' meaning 'bent' or 'crooked.'

Historical Evolution

'ankyloser' in French was adopted into English as 'ancylose,' and eventually became the modern medical term for joint stiffening.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to make crooked or bent,' but over time it evolved into its current medical meaning of 'to stiffen or fuse a joint.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to unite or stiffen (a joint) by ankylosis, or to become stiffened or fused, especially in reference to bones or joints.

If the joint is not treated, it may ancylose over time.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/08/02 09:21