WordGarden.ioankle
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈæŋkəl/
US
- /ˈæŋkəl/
Meanings
Noun
the joint between the foot and the leg
Beyond the definition
The ankle is that crucial joint where your foot meets your leg—the bit that lets you point, flex, and generally move. It's a surprisingly complex arrangement of bones, ligaments, and tendons working together. Think about it: every step, jump, or even just standing relies on the strength and flexibility of your ankles.
You might talk about a twisted ankle after a clumsy landing, or admire delicate ankles in a vintage photograph. Ankle boots are a popular style of footwear that highlight this part of the leg. The phrase "on someone's heels" often implies they're close behind—almost nipping at your heels. It's a vulnerable spot—easily injured but essential for getting around.
The ankle is the joint that connects your foot to your lower leg, allowing for movement in multiple directions. It's formed by the articulation of three bones: the tibia and fibula (from your leg) and the talus (from your foot). Strong ligaments hold these bones together, providing stability, while tendons connect muscles to bone, enabling you to move your foot up, down, and side-to-side.
Because it bears so much weight and is involved in almost every form of locomotion, the ankle is susceptible to injury. A "sprained ankle" refers to stretched or torn ligaments, often caused by sudden twists or impacts. Athletes are particularly prone to ankle injuries, but anyone can twist an ankle simply by stepping awkwardly.
Beyond anatomy, "ankle" appears in several interesting contexts. While the "foot" is a famous unit of measurement, the ankle is more often used to describe height or depth in fashion and language. You can describe clothing that reaches the joint, like "ankle-length skirts" or "ankle boots." Figuratively, if you are "ankle-deep" in a project or trouble, it suggests you are just beginning to get involved—unlike being "up to your neck," which means you are completely submerged in the situation!
So, whether you're discussing its anatomy, recovering from an injury, describing fashion, or illustrating a predicament, the ankle is a vital and versatile part of our bodies—and our language!
Examples
- 1
Sports injury
I twisted my ankle playing basketball.
- 2
Swelling
Her ankle was still swollen the next day.
- 3
Medical care
The doctor put a bandage around his ankle.
- 4
Water depth
The water came up to our ankles as we crossed the stream.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Clothing
She bought a pair of ankle boots for winter.
- Phraseankle boots
boots that reach the ankle
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- anklenoun
Forms
- anklespluralnoun