Pronunciation: [nˈiːkap] (IPA) 
The word "kneecap" is spelled with a "k", which is pronounced as /k/. The second syllable is spelled with an "ee" because it is a long vowel sound, pronounced as /i:/, with a silent "e" at the end. The final syllable is spelled with an "a" but pronounced as /æ/ because it is a short vowel sound. The word "kneecap" refers to the bone that covers and protects the knee joint, and is commonly used in medical and anatomical contexts.
The term "kneecap" refers to a small, flat, rounded bone located in the front part of the knee joint, also known as the patella. Serving as a protective shield for the knee joint, the kneecap plays a crucial role in enhancing stability and facilitating smooth movement during activities such as walking, running, and jumping.
Anatomically, the kneecap is situated in the tendon of the quadriceps muscle and is highly specialized in its structure. This structure includes a smooth, articular cartilage on its back surface, which enables it to glide smoothly against the other bones in the knee joint. The kneecap is held in place by ligaments and surrounding muscles, including the quadriceps muscles in the front of the thigh and the patellar tendon that attaches the kneecap to the shinbone.
In addition to its mechanical role, the kneecap acts as a lever, increasing the force applied by the quadriceps muscle during leg extension. This leveraging effect is vital for activities like jumping or kicking, where maximal force production is required.
Common injuries to the kneecap include fractures, dislocations, and wear and tear of the articular cartilage. These injuries can result from trauma, overuse, or anatomical abnormalities. Treatment for kneecap injuries depends on severity and may involve rest, immobilization, physical therapy, or surgical intervention when necessary.
A capping on the knees of horses.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "kneecap" has a straightforward etymology. It derives from the combination of two words: "knee" and "cap".
The term "knee" originated from the Old English word "cneow", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "knewa". This word is believed to have its roots in the Proto-Indo-European base "*genu", meaning "knee".
The word "cap", in this context, refers to a protective covering. It comes from the Old English word "cæppe", which evolved from the Latin word "cappa".
Hence, "kneecap" literally means the protective covering or cap of the knee. It refers to the rounded bone called the patella, which covers the front of the knee joint in humans and some animals.
