ECTETHMOID Meaning and
Definition
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Ectethmoid is a term used in anatomy and paleontology to describe a small bone located in the mammalian skull. Specifically, the ectethmoid bone is found in certain species of mammals within the nasal region. It is a minor bone that contributes to the structure of the skull, particularly the nasal cavity.
The ectethmoid bone is typically located anteriorly within the skull, forming part of the bony structure that surrounds the nasal passages. It is located above the ethmoid bone, which is a larger bone involved in the formation of the nasal septum and certain facial structures. Hence, the 'ectethmoid' is named such due to its position external to the ethmoid bone.
This bone is relatively small and delicate, often consisting of thin, delicate plates or ossifications. It can vary in shape and size depending on the species, and its arrangement within the skull can also differ. In some mammals, the ectethmoid bone may be partially fused with the ethmoid bone or other surrounding bones, while in others, it remains distinct and separate.
The function of the ectethmoid bone is primarily to provide structural support and reinforcement to the nasal region of the skull. It contributes to the formation of the nasal passages, aiding in the flow of air and facilitating olfaction (sense of smell) in mammals.
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One of the lateral masses of the ethmoid bone, ectoetbmoid.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ECTETHMOID
- wctethmoid
- sctethmoid
- dctethmoid
- rctethmoid
- 4ctethmoid
- 3ctethmoid
- extethmoid
- evtethmoid
- eftethmoid
- edtethmoid
- ecrethmoid
- ecfethmoid
- ecgethmoid
- ecyethmoid
- ec6ethmoid
- ec5ethmoid
- ectwthmoid
- ectsthmoid
- ectdthmoid
Etymology of ECTETHMOID
The word "Ectethmoid" is a medical term that refers to the ectethmoid bone, which forms a part of the skull. It is derived from combining two Greek roots: "ect(o)-" meaning "outside" or "outer", and "ethmos" meaning "sieve" or "colander". The term "ectethmoid" signifies the location of this bone, as it lies on the outer side of the ethmoid bone in the skull.
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