pterion
9.9
A point on the side of the skull where four bones meet
- noun
- /ˈtɛriən/
- Specialized
:
pterión
- The pterion is located above the temple, where several skull bones converge.
Examples
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The impact occurred in what's called the Pterion, an especially vulnerable part of the skull.
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Understanding the pterion is essential for surgeons performing operations on the skull.
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In human anatomy, the pterion is significant for its role in protecting the brain.
Synonyms
9.9
A soft spot on the side of a baby's head where skull bones meet
is the adult bony point where the same four skull bones meet
9.9
The soft spot on the side of a baby's head where several skull bones meet
is the adult bony point where the same four skull bones meet
9.9
Soft spot near the temple on a baby's head where several skull bones meet
is the adult bony point where the same four skull bones meet
Surface Forms
Etymology
Pterion comes from the Greek pteron, meaning 'wing'. It names the spot on the side of the skull where several bones meet, so thinking of a small 'wing' or junction helps you remember its place, and the same root appears in pterodactyl, the 'wing' dinosaur.
