bursae
Definition
Noun (plural of bursa): - Anatomical structure: "bursae" are small, fluid-filled sacs located near joints in the body. Their primary function is to reduce friction between bones, tendons, and muscles, allowing smooth movement.
Usage Examples
- (The sacs in the shoulder joint were swollen.)
- (The fluid-filled sacs in those joints.)
- (The sacs can become irritated.)
Advanced Usage
- "Subacromial bursae": specific bursae located beneath the acromion (part of the shoulder blade).
- The subacromial bursae help the rotator cuff tendons glide smoothly. (These particular sacs assist shoulder movement.)
- "Trochanteric bursae": bursae near the greater trochanter of the femur (hip bone).
- Runners often experience pain in the trochanteric bursae due to overuse. (The sacs near the hip joint can become inflamed.)
Variants and Related Words
- Bursa (n, singular): one such sac.
- Each bursa contains a small amount of synovial fluid. (A single sac.)
- Bursitis (n): inflammation of a bursa.
- Bursitis can occur from repetitive motion or injury. (The condition of swollen bursae.)
- Bursal (adj): relating to a bursa.
- The bursal cavity is lined with a membrane. (Pertaining to the sac.)
Synonyms
- Synovial sac: a more technical term for the same structure.
- Fluid-filled sac: a descriptive phrase emphasizing the sac's content.
Related Idioms
- There are no common idioms using "bursae" directly, as the term is technical and medical. However, in a medical context, one might say:
- "The bursae are the body's natural shock absorbers." (A metaphorical comparison to cushions.)
Phrasal Verbs
- No phrasal verbs exist with "bursae," as it is a noun form. However, related verbs include:
- Inflame: to cause swelling in a bursa.
- Repeated stress can inflame the bursae. (Cause inflammation.)
- Lubricate: to reduce friction, which is the function of bursae.
- The fluid in the bursae lubricates the joint. (Reduces friction.)