Pronunciation: [ɑːθɹˈə͡ʊdi͡ə] (IPA) 
Arthrodia is a word commonly used in anatomy to describe a type of joint. The word is spelled A-R-T-H-R-O-D-I-A and is pronounced /ɑːrˈθroʊdiə/. The 'a' at the beginning is pronounced as a long 'a' sound. The 'th' in 'arthritis' is pronounced as 'θ', which is the voiceless dental fricative. The 'r' is pronounced with a slight roll of the tongue while the 'o' is a short sound. The 'd' is also pronounced with emphasis.
Arthrodia is a term used in anatomy and biology to refer to a specific type of joint found in the skeletal system of animals. More specifically, it is a type of synovial joint that enables movement in multiple directions. The word comes from the Greek words "arthro" meaning joint, and "odos" meaning way or path.
An arthrodia joint is characterized by its flat, articular surfaces, which allow for gliding or sliding movements between two bones. These joints do not permit rotation, but provide a wide range of motion in various planes. Arthrodial joints are commonly found in the spinal column, where the flattened faces of adjacent vertebrae articulate with each other.
The structure of an arthrodial joint includes a thin layer of cartilage covering the articular surfaces of the bones. This cartilage helps to reduce friction and absorb shock during movement. Additionally, a synovial membrane encloses the joint space and secretes synovial fluid, which lubricates the joint and nourishes the cartilage.
Arthrodial joints are important for facilitating movements such as gliding or sliding motions, allowing for flexibility and mobility in the body. They are particularly crucial for enabling smooth movements in the spinal column, as well as in other joints like the wrist and ankle.
Gliding joint, a spherical joint in which the opposing surfaces are nearly planes and in which there is only a slight, gliding motion, as in the articular processes of the vertebrae.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A joint in which the head of one bone is received into the socket of another; a ball-and-socket joint.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Arthrodia" is derived from two Greek words: "arthro" which means "joint" and "odos" meaning "way" or "path". When combined, "arthrodia" refers to a type of synovial joint that allows mostly sliding or gliding movements between the surfaces of the articulated bones.
