The outermost layer or sheath of a tendon, consisting of specialized connective tissue that surrounds and protects the tendon fibers.
From Greek 'epi' (upon) combined with 'tenon' (tendon), literally 'upon the tendon.' This is an older anatomical term that has been largely replaced by 'epitendineum' in modern usage.
Anatomists keep remaking the same term in different languages—'epitenon' (Greek), 'epitendineum' (Latinized), 'paratendon'—showing how medical terminology evolves as we refine our understanding of what's actually at the edges of tendons.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.