What Is the Plural of Patella?
The plural of patella is patellae (pronounced puh-TELL-ee). In medical and anatomical writing, patellae is the standard plural form. You will also occasionally see patellas used in less formal or non-clinical contexts, but patellae is the correct choice for academic papers, patient notes, and professional healthcare communication.
Quick Answer
- Singular: patella
- Standard plural: patellae
- Alternative plural (informal): patellas
- Meaning: kneecap (the small bone at the front of the knee joint)
Why Is the Plural Patellae?
Patella is a Latin noun of the first declension. In Latin, nouns ending in -a typically form their plural by changing the ending to -ae. English borrowed many anatomical terms directly from Latin, and these terms keep their original Latin plural forms in formal medical language. This is the same pattern you see with vertebra (plural vertebrae), conjunctiva (plural conjunctivae), and bursa (plural bursae).
Comparison Table: Patella vs. Patellae vs. Patellas
| Form | Usage | Context | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Patella | Singular | Referring to one kneecap | The patient fractured her left patella. |
| Patellae | Standard plural | Formal medical writing, anatomy textbooks, clinical reports | Both patellae were examined during the physical exam. |
| Patellas | Informal plural | Everyday conversation, patient-friendly explanations, casual notes | He bruised both his patellas when he fell. |
When to Use Patellae vs. Patellas
Formal and Clinical Contexts
In a medical chart, research paper, or anatomy lecture, always use patellae. It signals that you are using precise, professional terminology. For example:
- The radiographs showed symmetrical patellae with no signs of fracture.
- Patellae are classified as sesamoid bones.
Informal and Patient-Facing Contexts
When speaking with a patient or writing a general health article, patellas is acceptable and often clearer. Many patients do not know the word patellae, so using the English-style plural helps avoid confusion. For example:
- You may feel a popping sensation behind both patellas.
- Apply ice to your patellas for 15 minutes after exercise.
Natural Examples
In a Clinical Report
The patient presented with bilateral anterior knee pain. Palpation of the patellae revealed tenderness along the inferior poles. No crepitus was noted.
In a Patient Education Handout
Your kneecaps, also called patellas, help protect the front of your knee joints. Strengthening the muscles around your patellas can reduce pain.
In an Email to a Colleague
I reviewed the MRI results. The patellae appear well-aligned, but there is mild chondromalacia on the right side.
In a Casual Conversation
I landed hard on both patellas during the game. They’re still sore today.
Common Mistakes
- Using patellae as a singular. Incorrect: One patellae is fractured. Correct: One patella is fractured.
- Using patella as a plural. Incorrect: Both patella are swollen. Correct: Both patellae are swollen.
- Mispronouncing patellae. The correct pronunciation is puh-TELL-ee, not puh-TELL-eye or puh-TELL-ay.
- Overusing patellae in casual speech. If you are talking to a patient who does not know medical terms, patellas or kneecaps is more helpful.
Better Alternatives
Depending on your audience and purpose, you may choose a different word instead of patella or patellae:
- Kneecap / kneecaps: Best for patient education, general public, and everyday conversation. Example: Wear knee pads to protect your kneecaps.
- Patellar bone / patellar bones: Useful when you want to emphasize the bone itself rather than the anatomical structure. Example: The patellar bones are the largest sesamoid bones in the body.
- Patellae: Best for formal medical writing, anatomy textbooks, and professional communication.
Mini Practice
Test your understanding with these four questions. Answers are below.
- What is the standard plural of patella?
- Which plural form is more appropriate for a research paper: patellae or patellas?
- True or false: Patella can be used as a plural noun.
- Rewrite this sentence using the correct plural form: The doctor examined both patella for signs of dislocation.
Answers
- Patellae.
- Patellae.
- False. Patella is singular only.
- The doctor examined both patellae for signs of dislocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is patellae pronounced differently from patella?
Yes. Patella is pronounced puh-TELL-uh. Patellae is pronounced puh-TELL-ee. The final vowel sound changes from uh to ee.
Can I use patellas in a medical journal?
Most medical journals follow standard Latin plurals for anatomical terms. You should use patellae in a formal publication. Some journals may accept patellas in less formal sections, but it is safer to use patellae.
What is the plural of patella in British English?
British English follows the same rule. The standard plural is patellae. The informal plural patellas is also used in British English, especially in patient-facing materials.
Are there other bones with similar plural forms?
Yes. Many bones and anatomical structures that end in -a follow the same pattern. Examples include vertebra (plural vertebrae), fibula (plural fibulae), and scapula (plural scapulae). Learning this pattern will help you with many medical terms.
Final Note
Choosing between patellae and patellas depends on your audience and the formality of the situation. In clinical documentation and academic writing, stick with patellae. In everyday speech and patient education, patellas or kneecaps works better. Understanding this distinction will help you communicate clearly and professionally in any medical context.
For more guidance on medical plurals, visit our Common Plural Forms section or check our FAQ page. If you have questions about other terms, feel free to contact us.
