The anatomical term “trochanter” (the bony protrusions on the femur) derives from the Greek τροχαντήρ (trochantḗr).

[1] This Greek word itself is generally broken down into: While the exact origin of the anatomical term "trochanter" is uncertain, multiple possible connections could be suggested.

One possibility is that the term was derived directly from the Greek roots without influence from the maritime meaning, with the name referencing the trochanter’s role in enabling swift movement through muscle attachment.

Alternatively, the term may have been influenced by the Greek τροχαντήρ (trochantḗr), which referred to the protrusions on the stern of triremes that served as attachment points for ropes and sails.

In a similar manner, the anatomical trochanters are prominent bony projections that serve as key attachment sites for muscles.