APOPHYSIS Meaning and
Definition
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Apophysis, derived from the Greek word "apophysis" meaning "growth" or "process," is a term that can be broadly defined in different fields such as biology, medicine, and geology. In biology, an apophysis refers to the prominence or outgrowth found on certain organisms, such as plants or animals. These growths can manifest as bony projections, extensions in botanical structures (e.g., seeds or fruits), or even as carunculate structures in certain invertebrates.
In the medical context, an apophysis refers specifically to an area where bone growth occurs alongside the attachment site of a muscle or tendon. Often found in growing children, these apophyses are responsible for longitudinal bone growth and contribute to the overall musculoskeletal development. Notable examples include the Tibial Tubercle Apophysis or the Severs Disease heel apophysis, which are associated with growth plate injuries in young athletes.
Geologically, apophysis denotes an elongated, typically downward-directed geological feature that extends from the main body of a volcanic or intrusive rock. These apophyses are formed during the cooling and solidification of molten rock (magma or lava), as the subordinate bodies of rock penetrate or intermingle with the surrounding country rock.
With its diverse applications, apophysis encompasses the notions of outgrowth, extension, and development in varying contexts, making it a versatile term that reflects processes and growth patterns in nature, biology, medicine, and geology.
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An outgrowth or projection, especially one from a bone. A bony process or outgrowth which has not an independent center of ossification.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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In anat., a process or protuberance on the surface of a bone, generally at the ends; in bot., any irregular swelling on the surface; a tubercle at the base of the seed-vessel of certain mosses.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for APOPHYSIS
- zpophysis
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- qpophysis
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- apophy sis
Etymology of APOPHYSIS
The word "apophysis" is derived from the Ancient Greek term "ἀπόφυσις" (apóphysis), which consists of two components: "apo" meaning "away from" or "off", and "phýsis" meaning "growth" or "origin". It can be translated as "a growth coming off" or "something that shoots off". In a medical or anatomical context, "apophysis" refers to a bony outgrowth or protrusion, particularly where tendons or ligaments attach. The term is commonly used in the field of orthopedics and anatomy.
Similar spelling words for APOPHYSIS
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