vaz
[ˈvas]masculine
The Czech word for ligament is vaz.
vaz refers to a band of strong tissue that holds the bones of an animal in position. This term is widely accepted in medical contexts throughout the Czech Republic.
Meaning: band of strong tissue that holds the bones of an animal in position (noun)
Which one should you use?
While vaz is the specific term for a ligament, the word šlacha is commonly used colloquially to refer to both tendons and ligaments.
How does it change in a sentence?
vaz is a masculine noun.
Did you know?
- In Czech, the word vaz is also used to describe the binding of a book.
- While vaz is the correct term for a ligament, a Czech person might use šlacha to describe a 'tough' piece of meat in a stew.
- If you use the word vaz to describe a physical connection, you might find it used in music to describe a 'tie' or a 'slur' between notes.
Examples in context
- Můj doktor mi řekl, že jsem si natrhl vaz v koleni.My doctor told me that I tore a ligament in my knee.
- Ten vaz je velmi silný.That ligament is very strong.
- Právě mu praskl vaz.His ligament just snapped.
Example conversation
Tomáš and Tereza are discussing a sports injury at a gym.
- TomášBolí tě koleno?Does your knee hurt?
- TerezaAno, myslím, že mi praskl vaz.Yes, I think I snapped a ligament.
- TomášTo zní vážně.That sounds serious.
- TerezaMusím jít k lékaři.I must go to the doctor.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “ligament” translations and entries vaz, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
