# osteoarthritis

/ˌɑstiˌoʊɑɹˈθɹaɪtəs/ (US) · /ˌɒstɪɔːθɹˈaɪtɪs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/osteoarthritis
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

a common type of joint pain and stiffness that happens when the cartilage in your joints wears away. It usually affects older people and makes it hard to move your joints smoothly.

For teachers: a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone within a joint. It is the most common form of arthritis and typically affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips.

## Examples

- My grandmother has osteoarthritis in her knees.
- The doctor diagnosed the patient with osteoarthritis after noticing significant wear on the cartilage in the X-ray.
- While osteoarthritis is often associated with aging, it can also result from previous joint injuries or repetitive strain that accelerates the natural wear of the cartilage.

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