Pronunciation: [sɛfˈalɪk] (IPA) 
The word "cephalic" is spelled with a "c" instead of a "k" even though it begins with a "k" sound. This is due to the word's Greek origin, in which the letter "k" is often represented by a "c" when it comes before the vowels "e" and "i". The IPA phonetic transcription for "cephalic" is /səˈfælɪk/, with the stress on the second syllable. The word refers to something related to the head or the skull.
Cephalic refers to something located or positioned in relation to the head. It is derived from the Greek word "kephalḗ," meaning head. The term is commonly used in the fields of anatomy, biology, and medical sciences to describe structures, regions, or movements in the upper part of the body.
In anatomy, cephalic is often employed to designate portions or features located in the head or cranial region. For instance, the cephalic vein is a major blood vessel that runs in the upper limb from the hand up to the shoulder, while the cephalic index is a measurement used to assess head shape and size in humans and other animals.
In biology, cephalic is used to describe the region or direction towards the head. For example, cephalic flexure refers to the curved region on the head end of an embryo, while cephalic disorder refers to a condition or abnormality affecting the structures in the head.
In medical sciences, cephalic is often utilized to describe medical procedures or diagnostic tests relating to the head. For instance, cephalic presentation refers to the position of a fetus in the womb with its head downward, ready for birth.
Overall, cephalic is a versatile term used across various disciplines to indicate positions or characteristics associated with the head or upper part of the body.
• A medicine for headache.
• Pert. to the head.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "cephalic" is derived from the Greek word "kephalē" (κεφαλή), which means "head". The suffix "-ic" is commonly used in English to form adjectives, indicating "relating to" or "pertaining to". Therefore, "cephalic" means "related to the head" or "pertaining to the head".
