Pronunciation: [bˈazɪlə] (IPA) 
The word "basilar" is spelled with a "s" but it is pronounced as "z" due to the unvoiced to voiced sound shift rule in English. This word comes from the Latin word "basis" which means foundation or base. It is commonly used in medical terminology to describe structures located at the base of the skull, such as the basilar artery or basilar membrane. The correct phonetic transcription of "basilar" is /ˈbæz.ɪ.lər/.
Basilar is an adjective that refers to something related to or located at the base or bottom. It is commonly used in the field of anatomy and biology to describe structures that are situated towards the lower part of a particular organ or body part.
In human anatomy, "basilar" is often associated with the base of the skull, namely the "basilar bone" or "basilar part of the occipital bone." This area forms the lower part of the skull, providing a strong foundation for the brain and serving as an attachment point for various muscles and ligaments.
The term can also be used within the context of other organs or body parts. For example, in the respiratory system, the "basilar region" refers to the lower part of the lungs. In the cochlea, the spiral-shaped structure in the inner ear responsible for hearing, the "basilar membrane" is a thin membrane that separates fluid-filled compartments and supports the organ of Corti, which contains the sensory cells responsible for detecting sound waves. Moreover, in botany, "basilar" is used to describe the arrangement of leaves or flowers borne at the base of a plant stem.
Overall, "basilar" is an adjective that denotes a position toward the base or bottom of a structure or organism, often highlighting its foundational role or anatomical significance.
Relating to a base, basal.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
In bot., attached to the base of an organ.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "basilar" is derived from the Latin word "basis", meaning "foundation" or "base". It is a combination of "basis" and the suffix "-ar", which denotes "pertaining to" or "related to". Thus, "basilar" describes something related to or belonging to the base.
