Definition & Meaning of "kneecap"

What is "kneecap "?

The kneecap, also known as the patella, is a small, flat, triangular bone located in the front of the knee joint. It acts as a protective shield for the knee joint and helps to transmit forces during movement. The kneecap plays a crucial role in knee extension and provides mechanical advantage to the quadriceps muscles, enabling efficient and powerful leg movements. It also serves to protect the underlying structures of the knee, such as the joint surfaces and ligaments. The kneecap's position and shape allow for smooth gliding of the patellar tendon over the knee joint, contributing to stability and proper functioning of the knee during activities like walking, running, and jumping.