cartilaginous joint

Definition: a joint in which the apposed bony surfaces are united by cartilage; they are divided into synchondroses and symphyses; in synchondroses, the cartilage connecting the apposed surfaces is, as a rule, ultimately converted to bone, as between epiphyses and diaphyses of long bones; exceptions are the sternal synchondroses and the cartilaginous union of the first rib and the manubrium of the sternum; in symphyses the bones are connected by a flat disc of fibrocartilage that remains unossified throughout life; the intervertebral disc and the symphysis pubis.

Synonym(s): junctura cartilagineaTA, articulatio cartilaginis, cartilaginous articulation, synarthrodial joint2

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