ankylose

verb

an·​ky·​lose ˈaŋ-ki-ˌlōs How to pronounce ankylose (audio)
-ˌlōz
ankylosed; ankylosing

transitive verb

: to unite or stiffen by ankylosis

intransitive verb

: to undergo ankylosis

Examples of ankylose in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Barber spoke during the sermon of his physical limitations from a form of arthritis known as ankylosing spondylitis, which causes inflammation in the joints and ligaments of the spine, according to the National Institutes of Health. — Mitchell McCluskey, CNN, 18 June 2023 Some of these medical conditions include issues like seronegative spondyloarthropathy or ankylosing spondylitis. — Zee Krstic, Good Housekeeping, 4 May 2023

Word History

Etymology

earlier anchylose, back-formation from ancylosis, anchylosis ankylosis

First Known Use

1771, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of ankylose was in 1771

Rhymes for ankylose

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Browse Nearby Words

ankylose
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Cite this Entry

“Ankylose.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ankylose. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Medical Definition

ankylose

verb
an·​ky·​lose
variants also anchylose
ˈaŋ-ki-ˌlōs, -ˌlōz How to pronounce ankylose (audio)
ankylosed; ankylosing

transitive verb

: to unite or stiffen by ankylosis
a joint ankylosed by surgery

intransitive verb

: to undergo ankylosis
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