coxal articulation /kok″səl/ [L, coxa + articularis, relating to the joints] , the ball-and-socket joint of the hip, formed by the articulation of the head of the femur into the cup-shaped cavity of the acetabulum. It involves seven ligaments and permits very extensive movements, such as flexion, extension, adduction, abduction, and medial and lateral rotation. Also called hip joint. Compare shoulder joint.
