Definition

Noun: 1. An artificial device that replaces a missing body part: A prosthesis is a man-made, external device designed to substitute for a missing limb, joint, tooth, or other body structure, typically to restore function or appearance. 2. (In linguistics) The addition of a sound or syllable at the beginning of a word: This is a specialized, less common meaning referring to a phonological process, such as the addition of the 'e' in 'especial' from the Latin 'specialis'.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Medical):
  • After the accident, he was fitted with a state-of-the-art leg prosthesis.
  • Modern dental prostheses, like implants, look and function like natural teeth.
  • The development of myoelectric prostheses allows for more natural movement controlled by muscle signals.
• Noun (Linguistics):
  • The word "espy" demonstrates prosthesis, evolving from the Old French "espier."

Advanced Usage

• "To be fitted with a prosthesis": This is the standard phrase for describing the process of receiving and adjusting to an artificial limb or device.
  • The athlete was fitted with a running-specific prosthesis six months after the amputation.
• "Osseointegrated prosthesis": A highly advanced type of implant where the artificial limb attaches directly to the bone, providing greater stability and control.
  • Osseointegrated prostheses for the femur have revolutionized mobility for some amputees.

Variants and Related Words

• Prosthetic (Adjective): Relating to or being a prosthesis.
  • She is a specialist in prosthetic design.
• Prosthetics (Noun, plural): The field of medicine or engineering concerned with the design, fabrication, and fitting of artificial body parts.
  • He studied biomechanics and prosthetics at university.
• Prosthetist (Noun): A healthcare professional who designs, fits, and adjusts prostheses.
  • The prosthetist worked with the patient to ensure the artificial limb was comfortable.

Synonyms

• Artificial limb: (Specifically for arms and legs).
• Implant: (Often used for dental or internal devices, though some implants are a type of prosthesis).
• Replacement part: (A general, non-technical term).

Related Phrases

• Phantom limb pain: A common sensation felt by amputees where pain is perceived in the missing limb, often discussed in the context of adapting to a prosthesis.
• Prosthetic socket: The part of a limb prosthesis that fits over and attaches to the residual limb (stump).

Noun

1. corrective consisting of a replacement for a part of the body