ball joint

Sphere-in-cup mechanism

A ball joint is a mechanical connection allowing rotation in multiple directions, consisting of a spherical bearing fitted into a socket.

Ball joints appear in automotive suspensions, linking control arms to steering knuckles, and in human-like applications—robotic arms, camera mounts, anything needing flexible articulation: The mechanic said my front ball joints were worn out.

automotive

suspension

Temporary halt or exclusion

control armSuspension pivot component
tie rodLateral steering linkage bar
steeringControlling direction of movement

wheel · alignment · chassis · knuckle · hub · axle · bushing · shock absorber · strut · stabilizer

mechanical

pivot

Point of rotation

socketHollow receiving cavity
couplingJoint between systems
linkageConnected system of parts

swivel · gimbal · clevis · housing · stud · articulation · freedom of movement · preload · torque · industrial

anatomy

synovial

Of joint membranes

cartilageFlexible connective body tissue
ligamentConnective tissue between bones
tendonMuscle-to-bone connector

bursa · hip · shoulder · femur · socket · articulation · range of motion · flexion · extension · rotation

Categories

body partsarm, leg, hand, back, chest
musculoskeletalbone, bones, muscle, muscles, tendon
body part wordsAdam's apple, anklebone, armpit, backbone, belly button
car partsengine, steering wheel, brake, seats, tires
jointsknee, elbow, ankle, dovetail, wrist
ball jointsglenoid, socket

Opposites

joint type/mechanism

ball jointhinge joint

Single-plane skeletal articulation

hinge · welded joint · butt joint · universal joint · knuckle joint

mobility/rigidity

ball jointwelded joint

Heat-bonded metal connection

Family

ball, joint, balloon, balls, ballet, ballad, ballroom, joints, ballpark

Familiarity: Top 200,000
Profile: Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Rated G