semilunaire

Semilunaire, or semilunar in English, is an adjective used in anatomy and morphology to describe something crescent-shaped or half-moon-like. The term derives from Latin semi- “half” and luna “moon.”

In anatomy, semilunar denotes structures with a crescent form. The most well-known use is in the heart, where the two semilunar valves—the aortic valve and the pulmonary valve—are named for their crescent-shaped cusps as seen in cross-section. These valves open to permit ejection of blood from the ventricles and close to prevent backflow.

In the musculoskeletal system, the semilunar cartilages refer to the knee’s two crescent-shaped fibrocartilaginous structures, the medial and lateral menisci. They cushion the joint, distribute load, and aid stability during movement.

The term also appears in references to other crescent-shaped anatomical features and, more broadly, to non-biological contexts where a crescent form is present. In medical and scientific writing, semilunar provides a concise descriptor for any structure that resembles a half-moon in shape.

Overall, semilunaire serves as a general morphological descriptor used across disciplines to indicate crescent-like form, with specific and culturally variable applications in clinical terminology.