sesamoide

Sesamoide is a term used in several languages to denote a relation to sesame. In English, the corresponding noun is usually sesamoid, while sesamoide appears as an adjective or noun in other languages such as Spanish or French. The word forms are derived from sesame (Sesamum) with a suffix that connotes likeness or relation. Because usage varies by language, sesamoide may appear in dictionaries, glossaries, or descriptive scientific text rather than as a common English term.

In anatomy, sesamoide (often rendered as sesamoid) refers to a small bone embedded within a tendon or muscle. These bones modify mechanical forces as tendons pass over joints and protect tendons from wear. The best-known example in humans is the patella, or kneecap. Other examples include small sesamoid bones behind the knee (fabellae) and additional sesame-shaped bones at various joints in the hands and feet. The presence and number of sesamoids can vary between individuals and species.

In botany and seed morphology, sesamoide can describe seeds or seed-like structures that resemble sesame seeds in size or form. The usage is primarily descriptive and translational rather than part of formal taxonomy. It may appear in morphological notes or cross-language descriptions rather than as a standalone botanical category.

Overall, sesamoide is a cross-disciplinary term with its most established English counterpart being sesamoid, especially in anatomical contexts. Its exact meaning depends on language and field, ranging from sesame-related description to specific anatomical bones.