Elbow

Definition

Elbow refers to the joint connecting the upper arm and the forearm, allowing the arm to bend. It can also refer to something shaped like or resembling a bent arm, as well as the action of pushing someone with the elbow.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛlboʊ/
• Respelling: EL-boh

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛlbəʊ/
• Respelling: EL-boh

The pronunciation of "elbow" is consistent in both American and British English, though the final vowel sound is different due to accent variations.

Etymology

The word "elbow" comes from the Old English word "elnboga," a combination of "eln" (meaning "arm" or "forearm") and "boga" (meaning "bend" or "bow"). This term can be traced back to Proto-Germanic roots, where "elina" and "bugon" referred to the arm and bending motion. The word has been in use since at least the 10th century.

Derivatives

• Elbowing (verb)
• Elbowroom (noun)
• Elbowed (verb)
• Elbow grease (noun, idiom)
• Elbow-length (adjective)

Synonyms

• Bend
• Joint
• Corner (when referring to a sharp turn)

Antonyms

• Straight
• Unbent
• None

Usage

The word "elbow" is used in both anatomical contexts to refer to the joint between the upper and lower arm, and in a metaphorical sense to describe a bend or something that pushes or nudges, such as "elbowing" one's way through a crowd. It is also used in idiomatic expressions like "elbow grease," meaning hard physical work.

Related Terms

• Knee: The joint between the thigh and lower leg, often compared to the elbow in function and structure.
• Arm: The upper limb of the human body, including the elbow joint.
• Joint: A place where two bones meet, allowing movement such as the elbow or knee.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The joint between the upper arm and forearm: Refers to the physical joint in humans and many animals that allows for bending of the arm.
  • Example: "He injured his elbow during the match."
• A bend or angle resembling the joint: Describes any structure or object that has a shape similar to that of a bent arm or elbow.
  • Example: "The road took a sharp elbow at the edge of the forest."

Verb

• To push or nudge with the elbow: Describes the action of using the elbow to make space or move someone aside.
  • Example: "She elbowed her way through the crowd to get a better view."