A synovial bursa (bursa synovialis) is a recess in the articular cavity, formed at a point where the fibrous layer of the articular capsule has become thin and the synovia is able to extrude beyond it. Many bursae lose their connection with the articular cavity they accompany. Their function is to enhance the sliding of muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues in relation to movable bone structures, and to shift loads between bones and soft tissues. The anatomy of bursae is of importance in the endoscopic surgery of joints and of the bursae themselves. In many clinical situations the dominant symptoms may originate from particular synovial bursae. The Terminologia Anatomica (1998) lists ca. 50 bursae. The authors review the current state of knowledge regarding the anatomy of synovial bursae. Those of particular clinical importance are identified and suggestions are made for reconciling differences in clinical and anatomical terminology.