Which is the largest joint in the human body?

The knee is recognized as the largest joint in the human body due to its anatomical structure and functional capacity. It is classified as a hinge joint, primarily allowing flexion and extension, and can also accommodate slight rotational movement when in a flexed position. The knee joint comprises three main bones – the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap) – which are held together by a complex system of ligaments and tendons that contribute to its stability and mobility.

In addition to its size, the knee joint bears the majority of the body’s weight during standing, walking, running, and other activities, which emphasizes its importance in daily movements and athletic performance. This significant role in the body's mechanics, combined with its larger articular surface area compared to other joints, solidifies the knee's status as the largest joint.

The other joints listed, such as the elbow, ankle, and wrist, are smaller and while each plays a crucial role in movement and stability, they do not match the knee in terms of size or structural complexity.