trochanter

noun

tro·​chan·​ter trō-ˈkan-tər How to pronounce trochanter (audio)
1
: a rough prominence at the upper part of the femur of many vertebrates serving usually for the attachment of muscles
2
: the second segment of an insect's leg adjacent to the coxa
trochanteral
trō-ˈkan-tə-rəl How to pronounce trochanter (audio)
adjective
trochanteric
ˌtrō-kən-ˈter-ik How to pronounce trochanter (audio)
-ˌkan-
adjective

Examples of trochanter 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.
Trochanteric bursitis affects the pointed upper, outside edge of the femur (the thigh bone), called the greater trochanter. — Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 8 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Greek trochantēr; akin to Greek trechein to run

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of trochanter was in 1615

Rhymes for trochanter

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Browse Nearby Words

trochalopodous
trochanter
trochanterion
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Cite this Entry

“Trochanter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trochanter. Accessed 28 Mar. 2025.

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Medical Definition

trochanter

noun
tro·​chan·​ter trō-ˈkant-ər How to pronounce trochanter (audio)
: a rough prominence or process at the upper part of the femur of many vertebrates serving usually for the attachment of muscles and being usually two on each femur in mammals including humans:
a
: a larger one situated on the outer part of the upper end of the shaft at its junction with the neck

called also greater trochanter

b
: a smaller one situated at the lower back part of the junction of the shaft and neck

called also lesser trochanter

trochanteric
ˌtrō-kən-ˈter-ik, -ˌkan- How to pronounce trochanter (audio)
adjective
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