Hypsicephalic is a word that describes a high-headed or domed skull shape. The phonetic transcription is /hɪpsaɪˈsɛfəlɪk/. The first syllable, "hypsi," is pronounced like "hip-see" with the stress on the second syllable. The second part, "cephalic," is pronounced "sef-uh-lik," with the stress on the second syllable. Together, the word is pronounced "hip-see-sef-uh-lik." While the spelling might seem intimidating, learning the IPA phonetic transcription can help make even the most complex words easier to pronounce.
Hypsicephalic is an adjective used in anthropology and biology to describe a specific physical characteristic in humans or animals. The term is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "hyps" meaning high or tall, and "cephalic" meaning pertaining to the head or skull.
In terms of human anthropology, hypsicephalic refers to individuals or populations who possess a prominent or high forehead. This physical feature is characterized by a skull shape with a greater vertical distance between the forehead and the lower part of the face. Conversely, it implies a reduced horizontal distance between the temples. The high or tall appearance of the forehead often indicates a more vertically elongated cranium.
In the context of animal biology, hypsicephalic is used to describe animal species or breeds with particularly high or towering skulls. This physical trait is typically associated with certain dog breeds, such as the Borzoi or Afghan Hound, that possess a distinguished and elongated head shape.
Overall, the term hypsicephalic is mainly utilized to describe the structural characteristics of the skull or head, emphasizing a vertical elongation and a high forehead in both human and animal studies within the fields of anthropology and
biology.
Having a high, peaked head. Noting a skull with a vertical index above 75. Similar to acrocephalic.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "hypsicephalic" is derived from two Greek words: "hypsí" meaning "high" or "above" and "kephalḗ" meaning "head". The combining form "hypsicephalic" is used in anatomy to describe a particular skull shape that is high and vaulted.