tendon
UK: ˈtɛndən | US: ˈtɛndən
n. a flexible band of fibrous tissue that connects muscles to bones, enabling movement.
The word "tendon" traces back to Latin tendere ("to stretch"), reflecting its functional role in the body—stretching to transmit force from muscle to bone. The suffix "-on" was adopted into Middle English via Old French (tendon), solidifying its anatomical meaning. The logic is straightforward: tendons "stretch" to facilitate movement, hence the root tend-.
The athlete tore a tendon in his knee during the game.
Tendons are crucial for joint flexibility and stability.
She felt a sharp pain in her Achilles tendon while running.
Surgeons repaired the damaged tendon with a minimally invasive procedure.
Regular stretching helps keep tendons healthy and prevents injuries.