The word "filtrum" refers to the vertical groove just above the upper lip that connects the nose to the upper lip. The phonetic transcription of this word in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is /ˈfɪltrəm/. The spelling of this word is derived from the Latin word "philtrum," which means "love potion." Although the word has a complex spelling, its phonetic transcription is quite straightforward. The use of IPA helps to identify the individual sounds in the word and understand its pronunciation accurately.
Filtrum, also known as the philtrum, is a term used in anatomy to describe a shallow groove located on the upper lip, between the base of the nose and the vermilion border (the line between the pinkish-red part of the lip and the surrounding skin). It is an anatomical feature present in humans and is more pronounced in some individuals than in others.
The filtrum is formed during embryonic development when the tissues of the face fuse together. It is a result of the fusion between the two sides of the upper lip and the nose. The groove is typically vertical but can slightly vary in depth and shape among individuals.
The filtrum serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. Functionally, it helps guide the flow of tears from the eyes towards the nasal cavity, preventing excessive tear overflow. Aesthetically, it plays a role in facial symmetry and contributes to the overall appearance of the face.
The size and prominence of the filtrum can vary based on genetic factors, and it can also be influenced by external factors such as cleft lip or scarring. In certain cultures, the shape or characteristics of the filtrum hold cultural significance or are considered desirable attributes within the realm of beauty standards.
A filter.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "filtrum" comes from Latin. It is derived from the Latin word "philtrum", which in turn was borrowed from Greek. In Greek, the word was "philtron", meaning "love potion", "charm", or "lipstick". The Latin word "philtrum" was used to refer to the anatomical feature known as the philtrum, which is the vertical groove in the middle area of the upper lip.