Pronunciation: [t͡ʃˌe͡ɪmsɪfˈalɪk] (IPA) 
The spelling of "chamecephalic" is a result of its Greek roots. "Chame" means "on the ground" while "cephalic" means "related to the head." The word describes animals, such as reptiles and birds, which have a flat head and face forward. Using IPA phonetic transcription, the word can be spelled as /kəˈmɛsəfəlik/. However, due to its complex pronunciation and limited usage, it is not commonly used in everyday language.
Chamecephalic is an adjective that refers to an anatomical characteristic, specifically relating to the shape of the head in certain animals. The term is derived from the Greek words "chamai" meaning "upon the ground" or "low" and "kephalē" meaning "head."
In chamecephalic animals, such as reptiles, specifically chameleons, the head is relatively small and flattened, sitting low on the ground. This adaptation allows these animals to have a wider field of view, as they can rotate their eyes independently to observe their surroundings more effectively. Additionally, the structure of their head facilitates the ability to blend into their environment, enabling them to camouflage and avoid predators or capture prey efficiently.
The unique characteristics of chamecephalic animals also include a specialized tongue. This tongue is elongated and very agile, allowing them to catch insects or other small organisms from a distance by quickly extending and retracting it. Along with their eyes, this specialized tongue is an important feature that assists in their hunting behavior and survival in their natural habitat.
Overall, chamecephalic describes a specific anatomical structure of animals with flattened and low-sitting heads, which enable broader vision and effective camouflage. This term is particularly associated with reptiles such as chameleons, highlighting their distinct adaptations for survival and natural hunting abilities.
Having a flat head. Noting a skull with a vertical index of 70 or less. Similar to tapeinocephalic.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "chamecephalic" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "chamai" and "kephalē".
1. "Chamai" (Χαμαί) means "ground" or "on the ground".
2. "Kephale" (Κεφαλή) means "head" or "skull".
"Chamecephalic" is formed by combining these two roots. In terms of etymology, "chamecephalic" describes an individual or organism with a low or flattened skull shape, as if its head were close to or against the ground.
