POSTSPHENOID BONE Meaning and
Definition
-
The postsphenoid bone is a term used in anatomy to refer to a specific bone structure found in the skull of some vertebrates, including mammals. It is a relatively small and often overlooked bone that is located behind the sphenoid bone and anterior to the basioccipital bone.
In terms of its anatomical position, the postsphenoid bone is located in the base of the skull, specifically between the sphenoid bone and the occipital bone. It forms part of the temporal region and is situated near the sphenoid sinus.
The shape and size of the postsphenoid bone can vary among different species, but it is generally regarded as a thin, flat bone. It may have various curved surfaces and projections, which can serve as attachment points for ligaments and muscles.
The postsphenoid bone doesn't have any distinct functions on its own but rather contributes to the overall structure and stability of the skull. It participates in the formation of the cranial floor and works in conjunction with other bones to protect and support the brain. Additionally, it offers attachment sites for various soft tissues, such as muscles and ligaments, which play a role in facial and jaw movement.
While the postsphenoid bone may not be widely known or discussed compared to other cranial bones, its presence and contribution to the skull's integrity and functionality are key aspects of anatomical study and understanding.
-
The posterior portion of the body of the sphenoid bone.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for POSTSPHENOID BONE
- postsphenoid bonm
- postsphenoid bona
- postsphenoid bong
- po stsphenoid bone
- pos tsphenoid bone
- post sphenoid bone
- postsph enoid bone
- postsphe noid bone
- postsphen oid bone
- postspheno id bone
- postsphenoi d bone
- postsphenoid b one
- postsphenoid bo ne
- postsphenoid bon e
Etymology of POSTSPHENOID BONE
The word "postsphenoid" can be broken down into two parts: "post-" and "sphenoid".
- "Post-" is a prefix derived from the Latin word "post", meaning "after" or "behind". In anatomy, this prefix is used to indicate a structure located behind or posterior to another structure.
- "Sphenoid" comes from the Modern Latin word "sphenoides", a term coined by anatomist Jakob Winslow in the late 17th century. It is derived from the Greek word "sphēnoeidḗs", which means "wedge-shaped" or "wedge-like". This is because the sphenoid bone, to which the term "postsphenoid" refers, is a complex bone in the cranial region that has a wedge-like shape.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
