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Glite Dictionary
basisphenoid

basisphenoid

9.9
A bone at the base of the skull in some animals that helps make the bottom of the skull
  • noun
  • /ˌbeɪsɪˈsfɛɪnɔɪd/
  • Specialized
: basisfenoides
  • In some vertebrates, the basisphenoid forms an important part of the skull structure.
  • basisphenoid bone

Examples

  • Computed tomography (CT) had demonstrated massive thickening of the left temporal bone, involvement of the basisphenoid bone, and expansion of the left side of the mandible.

    Academic text (2008)

  • A CT scan was arranged, with a view to excision, and it demonstrated a large, deep facial mass centered on the pterygopalatine fissure, with erosion of the basisphenoid and basioccipital bone.

    Academic text (2008)

  • B and C: Coronal views show the evidence of skull base osteomyelitis and erosion of the basisphenoid bone.

    Academic text (2006)

  • The surgeon noticed significant damage to the basisphenoid during the cranial operation.

  • Research on early vertebrates indicates that the basisphenoid plays a key role in cranial floor support.

Surface Forms

basisphenoid singular
basisphenoids plural

Morphology

basisphenoid = basis + sphenoid (semi-transparent) = basis + sphenoid

The term is a straightforward compound of 'basis' + 'sphenoid' indicating the basal part of the sphenoid region, but it is a specialized anatomical term requiring technical knowledge.

Etymology

The word basisphenoid comes from basis- meaning 'base' and -sphenoid from a Greek word meaning 'wedge', so it is the wedge-like bone at the base of the skull.