Patellae is the medical term for the kneecap, which is a small, triangular bone that sits at the front of the knee joint. There are several synonyms for the word patellae, including knee bone, kneecap, and sesamoid bone. The patella is important for the function of the knee joint, as it helps to protect the knee and provide leverage for the quadricep muscles. Injuries to the patella are common and can range from minor contusions and sprains to serious fractures. Proper care and conditioning can help to maintain the health of the patellae and prevent injury.