Pronunciation: [nˈiːd͡ʒɔ͡ɪnt] (IPA) 
The word "kneejoint" is spelled with two separate words "knee" and "joint". The first syllable "knee" is pronounced /ni/, with a long "e" sound at the end. The second syllable "joint" is pronounced /dʒɔɪnt/, with a soft "j" sound at the beginning and a short "o" sound in the middle. Together, the word "kneejoint" refers to the junction between the femur and tibia bones in the human leg, commonly referred to as the knee.
The knee joint, also known as the femoropatellar joint, is a complex articulation found in mammals, including humans, that connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bones (tibia and fibula). It is a synovial hinge joint, responsible for allowing movements such as flexion and extension.
Comprising various components, the knee joint consists of the femur's rounded distal end, also known as the femoral condyles, which articulates with the flat upper surfaces of the tibia. The joint is lined with a protective layer of articular cartilage that reduces friction during movement while providing cushioning. Ligaments play a crucial role in maintaining stability by connecting the bones, including the cruciate ligaments inside the joint and the collateral ligaments on the sides.
The patella, commonly referred to as the kneecap, is another essential component of the knee joint. It is a sesamoid bone positioned in the front of the knee, allowing the quadriceps muscles to attach to the tibia through the patellar tendon.
In addition to the bony structures and ligaments, the knee joint contains synovial fluid, which lubricates the joint and nourishes the cartilages. Muscles surrounding the knee joint, such as the quadriceps and hamstrings, play a crucial role in providing strength and stability during movements.
Given its mechanical contribution to weight-bearing and locomotion, the knee joint is prone to injuries and conditions. Common issues include ligament sprains, meniscus tears, and osteoarthritis. Treatment options involve physical therapy, medication, and in severe cases, surgical interventions like arthroscopy or joint replacement.
The word "kneejoint" is a compound noun that combines two words: "knee" and "joint". Here is the etymology of each component:
1. Knee: The word "knee" originated from the Old English word "cneow". Its roots can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "knewa(z)" and the Proto-Indo-European root "*genu". These roots suggest a common ancestral origin related to bending or genuflection.
2. Joint: The word "joint" came from the Old French word "jointe" or "gjointe", which meant a joining together or connection. It can be derived from the past participle of the verb "joindre", meaning "to join" in Old French.
