MENISCUS Meaning and
Definition
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Meniscus refers to a curved surface that is formed when a liquid is contained within a vessel or when a liquid is in contact with another material. More specifically, it refers to the curved upper surface of a liquid in a container, such as a test tube or a beaker, due to the surface tension of the liquid. The concave shape of the meniscus is typically seen when the liquid wets the container's walls, causing it to be slightly higher at the edges compared to the center.
The meniscus acts as an important indicator for measuring the volume of a liquid accurately in laboratory settings. Scientists often place the vessel on a level surface, aligning the bottom of the meniscus with a reference point for precision. By reading the position of the meniscus relative to the calibrated scale on the container, one can determine the volume of the liquid more precisely.
Additionally, the term "meniscus" is commonly used in the field of anatomy to describe two C-shaped pieces of cartilage present in the human knee joint. These structures, known as medial and lateral meniscus, provide cushioning and stability to the knee, absorbing shock and distributing the body's weight across the joint. Damage or tears to these menisci can lead to pain, limited mobility, and instability in the knee. Surgical procedures, such as meniscectomy or meniscal repair, are often required to address meniscus-related issues in the knee.
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1. A concavoconvex lens thicker in the center than at the sides, the convexity being greater than the concavity. 2. An interarticular fibrocartilage of crescentic or discoid shape found in certain joints; called also m. articularis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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A lens, convex on one side and concave on the other, with a sharp edge, resembling the appearance of the new moon.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of MENISCUS
The word "meniscus" has its origins in Ancient Greek. It can be derived from the Greek word "meniskos" (μηνίσκος), which translates to "crescent" or "little moon". This is because the shape of the meniscus resembles a crescent or moon. The term was first used in the field of medicine to describe the curved cartilage found in certain joints, particularly in the knee joint. It has since been adopted in other scientific disciplines to refer to various curved or lens-like structures.
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