Definition

Noun: - Tough elastic tissue; mostly converted to bone in adults: Gristle is the firm, flexible, and translucent connective tissue found in the bodies of animals, particularly in joints and the structure of the nose and ears. In humans, much of this cartilage is replaced by bone during the process of maturation.

Usage

Gristle is used to refer specifically to cartilage, especially when it is noticeable as a tough, chewy substance in meat. - The steak had a lot of gristle, making it difficult to chew. - As children develop, the gristle in their bodies gradually hardens into bone.

Advanced Usage

• In the gristle: An archaic or literary phrase meaning in a state of immaturity or not yet fully developed.
  • The young athlete, still in the gristle, showed great potential for the future.

Variants and Related Words

• Cartilage (n): The more formal, scientific term for gristle.
  • The surgeon repaired the damaged cartilage in his knee.

Synonyms

• Cartilage: The direct synonym, used in anatomical and formal contexts.

Noun

1. tough elastic tissue; mostly converted to bone in adults