The spelling of the word "gnomes calf" can be a head-scratcher for some. The pronunciation of the first part, "gnomes," is /noʊmz/, with the "gn" sound being silent. The second part, "calf," is pronounced /kæf/, with the "l" being silent. When combined, "gnomes calf" is pronounced as /noʊmz kæf/. While it may take some practice, knowing the proper phonetic pronunciation of this word can impress even the most astute linguists.
The very full rounded calf occurring in pseudohypertrophic paralysis affecting the gastrocnemius muscles.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.