Definition

1. Noun:
   • A beaded molding for edging or decorating furniture: In architecture and woodworking, an astragal is a small, semicircular molding or bead, often used as a decorative border or to cover a joint.
   • The bone in the ankle that articulates with the leg bones to form the ankle joint: In anatomy, the astragal is another name for the talus bone, a key bone in the ankle that connects the leg to the foot.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Architectural):
  • The cabinetmaker added a delicate astragal to the edge of the bookshelf.
  • The classical column was finished with an astragal at its base.
• Noun (Anatomical):
  • A fracture of the astragal can severely limit mobility.
  • The astragal articulates with both the tibia and the fibula.

Advanced Usage

• "Astragal molding": A specific type of molding characterized by its beaded profile.
  • The door frame was adorned with an elegant astragal molding.
• "Astragal joint": A joint in carpentry or glazing sealed or decorated with an astragal.
  • The astragal joint between the double doors provided both a seal and a decorative touch.

Variants and Related Words

• Talus (n): The anatomical term for the ankle bone, synonymous with the anatomical meaning of astragal.
  • The talus is crucial for ankle movement.
• Bead (n): A general term for a small, rounded molding, similar in form to an astragal.
  • A simple bead was used to finish the edge of the table.

Synonyms

• For the architectural sense: Bead, molding, edging, border.
• For the anatomical sense: Talus, ankle bone.

Related Phrases

• "To articulate with" (phrase): A term used in anatomy meaning to form a joint with. The astragal articulates with other bones.
  • The astragal articulates with the bones of the lower leg.

Related Idioms

(This word is highly technical and is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions.)

Noun

1. a beaded molding for edging or decorating furniture
2. the bone in the ankle that articulates with the leg bones to form the ankle joint