zygomatic arch
1
9.0
- noun
- /ˌzaɪɡəˈmætɪk ɑrk/
- Specialized
:
arco cigomático
- Accompanying adaptations included the bowing of the zygomatic arch to accommodate the larger masseter and the increased complexity of the postcanine teeth for mastication.
Examples
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Right here on the zygomatic arch.
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Fractured nasal bone, fracture of the right zygomatic arch extending into the maxilla.
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The projectile had entered above the zygomatic arch, and its tip rested at the posterior end of the left inferior turbinate.
Academic text (2002) -
Physical examination revealed that the flat head of a nail 1 cm in diameter was flush with the skin above the left zygomatic arch, just posterior to the supraorbital rim.
Academic text (2002) -
During the surgery, the doctor noted a fracture in the zygomatic arch that needed immediate attention.
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The artist carefully highlighted the contour of the zygomatic arch in the portrait to emphasize the subject's facial structure.
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Injuries to the zygomatic arch can affect both appearance and function, often requiring reconstructive procedures.
Synonyms
1
9.9
A bony arch on the side of the face that forms the curve of the cheek
A curved bony arch on the side of the face where the cheekbone joins the bone near the ear
Surface Forms
Morphology
The compound is fully compositional: 'zygomatic' means relating to the cheek/cheekbone and 'arch' denotes an arched bony structure, so together they denote the bony arch of the cheek area. Although the term is technical, a learner who knows both constituent meanings can straightforwardly infer the anatomical referent.
Etymology
Zygomatic arch may come from an old word meaning 'yoke', a thing that 'joins', and arch means a curved bridge. So it names the curved bone that 'joins' the cheekbone to the side of the head, which is why it means the curved bone at the side of the face.