EYE TOOTH Meaning and
Definition
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The term "eye tooth" refers to one of the eight long, pointed teeth located in the upper jaw of a human, also known as the canine tooth. An eye tooth is characterized by its sharp, conical shape and its position next to the incisors. The name "eye tooth" is derived from its location, as it is known for being situated directly below the eye socket, creating an alignment that resembles an eye shape when viewed from the front.
Typically, human beings possess four eye teeth, with two present in each respective quadrant of the maxilla. These teeth are considered to be important for function and esthetics. They play a key role in biting and tearing food, aiding the incisors in the initial stages of the digestion process.
Furthermore, eye teeth contribute to the overall appearance of an individual's smile, as they are critical for maintaining proper tooth alignment and ensuring a harmonious bite. In some cases, due to various dental abnormalities or genetic factors, the eye teeth may fail to erupt properly, becoming impacted and leading to potential orthodontic and dental complications.
Due to their unique shape and location, eye teeth have often acquired symbolic connotations in different cultures. In folklore and mythology, these teeth have been associated with power, strength, and even spiritual beliefs, emphasizing their significance beyond their practical functions within the oral cavity.
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The canine tooth, on either side, in the upper jaw.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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One of the two pointed teeth of the upper jaw, one under each eye.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for EYE TOOTH
- wye tooth
- dye tooth
- rye tooth
- 4ye tooth
- 3ye tooth
- ete tooth
- ege tooth
- ehe tooth
- eue tooth
- e7e tooth
- e6e tooth
- eyw tooth
- eys tooth
- eyd tooth
- eyr tooth
- ey4 tooth
Etymology of EYE TOOTH
The word "eye tooth" is derived from the Middle English term "eighen tooth" or "eye tooth", which can be traced back to the Old English term "ēagetōð". The term is a combination of "ēage" (meaning "eye") and "tōð" (meaning "tooth"). It is believed to have originated based on the visual resemblance of these specific teeth to the position and shape of an eye, particularly in animals. Thus, the term "eye tooth" refers to the canine teeth, which is the name commonly given to the pointed teeth located between the incisors and premolars on the upper jaw.
Similar spelling words for EYE TOOTH
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