trochanter

noun

tro·​chan·​ter trō-ˈkan-tər How to pronounce trochanter (audio)
1
: a rough prominence at the upper part of the femur of many vertebrates serving usually for the attachment of muscles
2
: the second segment of an insect's leg adjacent to the coxa
trochanteral adjective
trochanteric adjective

Examples of trochanter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Trochanteric bursitis affects the pointed upper, outside edge of the femur (the thigh bone), called the greater trochanter. Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 8 Aug. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'trochanter.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Greek trochantēr; akin to Greek trechein to run

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of trochanter was in 1615

Dictionary Entries Near trochanter

Cite this Entry

“Trochanter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trochanter. Accessed 19 Aug. 2024.

Medical Definition

trochanter

noun
tro·​chan·​ter trō-ˈkant-ər How to pronounce trochanter (audio)
: a rough prominence or process at the upper part of the femur of many vertebrates serving usually for the attachment of muscles and being usually two on each femur in mammals including humans:
a
: a larger one situated on the outer part of the upper end of the shaft at its junction with the neck

called also greater trochanter

b
: a smaller one situated at the lower back part of the junction of the shaft and neck

called also lesser trochanter

trochanteric adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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