cruciate ligament: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) prevents the tibia from sliding too far forward relative to the femur. The Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) prevents the tibia from sliding too far backward. They cross in the center of the knee.

Primarily for the knee. There are also cruciate ligaments in the atlas-axis joint of the neck (cruciform ligament) and in other species (e.g., in the stifle joint of dogs), but in common human anatomy and discourse, it refers to the knee.

Often yes, after the initial pain and swelling subside, but the knee will feel unstable and may 'give way', especially during pivoting movements. It does not heal on its own and usually requires surgical reconstruction for active individuals.

ACL injuries are far more common, especially in sports involving jumping, cutting, and pivoting (e.g., football, basketball, skiing). PCL injuries typically require more direct, forceful impact to the front of the shin and are less frequent.

One of two major ligaments (anterior and posterior) in the knee that cross each other, providing crucial stability by preventing excessive forward or backward movement of the tibia relative to the femur.

Cruciate ligament is usually technical / medical in register.

Cruciate ligament: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkruː.ʃi.ət ˈlɪɡ.ə.mənt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkruː.ʃi.ət ˈlɪɡ.ə.mənt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.