symphysis noun. ['sɪmfɪsɪs] Pl. -physes [-fɪsi:z]. L16.
[mod. Latin from Greek sumphusis growing together (esp. of bones), formed as SYM- + phusis growth.]
1. Anatomy & Zoology. The union of two bones or skeletal elements by fusion of the bone or by cartilaginous connection; the part, or line of junction, where this occurs or occurred, esp. where two similar bones on opposite sides of the body are united in the median line, as that of the pubic bones. L16.
symphysis mandibulae [man'dɪbjʊli:] [Latin = of the jaw], symphysis menti ['mɛnti] [Latin = of the chin] Anatomy the line of union of the two halves of the lower jaw. symphysis pubis ['pju:bɪs] Anatomy the cartilaginous mass connecting the two pubic bones.
2. The union or fusion of other separate parts, either surgically or naturally. Now rare. L19.

■ symphyseal,

■ symphysial [-'fɪzɪǝl] adjectives of or pertaining to a symphysis; situated at or forming a symphysis: M19.

■ symphysi'otomy noun (Medicine) (an instance of) a surgical operation to cut through the symphysis pubis to facilitate delivery M19.

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