symphysis

n 1. a joint in which the bones are separated by fibrocartilage, which minimizes movement and makes the bony structure rigid. Examples are the pubic symphysis (the joint between the pubic bones of the pelvis) and the joints of the backbone, which are separated by intervertebral discs. 2. the line that marks the fusion of two bones that were separate at an early stage of development, such as the symphysis of the MANDIBLE .