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Definition

noun

A synovial joint in which the ball-shaped surface of one bone fits into the rounded cavity of the other, allowing movement in almost any direction (in a 360^o angle).

Supplement

Examples of this form of articulation are found in the arm, hip and shoulder providing swing for arms and legs in various directions.

Word origin: Greek enarthrōsis, from enarthros (jointed).

Related term: enarthrodial (adjective)

Synonyms:

• spheroid or spheroidal joint
• spheroid articulation
• articulatio spheroidea
• articulatio cotylica
• cotyloid joint
• enarthrodial joint
• ball-and-socket joint