How Do You Spell MASTOID?

Pronunciation: [mˈastɔ͡ɪd] (IPA)

The word "mastoid" refers to a bony structure behind the ear. The spelling of this word is interesting due to the silent "o" in the first syllable. The correct pronunciation is /ˈmæstɔɪd/. The first syllable is pronounced as "mas" with the "a" being short and the "s" being voiced. The second syllable is pronounced as "toid" with a long "o" and the "d" being voiced. This spelling can be confusing for some, but understanding the IPA phonetic transcription can help with proper pronunciation.

MASTOID Meaning and Definition

1. The term "mastoid" can refer to different anatomical structures depending on the context of usage. In the field of anatomy, "mastoid" generally refers to the mastoid process, a bony projection located behind the ear. The mastoid process is part of the temporal bone, which is situated on the side of the skull. It is characterized by its irregular shape and honeycomb-like structure composed of air cells. The mastoid process serves as an anatomical attachment site for muscles and ligaments involved in head and neck movements.

   Additionally, "mastoid" can also relate to the mastoid bone, which is a central component of the overall temporal bone. This bone houses several important structures such as the middle and inner ear, as well as delicate anatomical elements responsible for hearing and balance. Furthermore, the word "mastoid" is occasionally used to describe medical conditions related to the mastoid process, such as mastoiditis, an inflammatory infection of the mastoid air cells. This condition often arises as a complication of a middle ear infection and is typically characterized by pain, swelling, and fever.

   Overall, "mastoid" refers to the mastoid process, a bony projection behind the ear, or can encompass the entire mastoid bone. It can also pertain to medical conditions associated with the mastoid process, like mastoiditis.

2. 1. Resembling a mamma, breast-shaped. 2. Relating to the mastoid process, antrum, cells, etc.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. Nipple-like.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for MASTOID

• mastif
• mastir
• mastiod
• masterd
• maston
• mastor
• masood
• matoid
• mastard
• maatoid
• madtoid
• maetoid
• mawtoid
• masstoid
• mastoad
• mastoial
• mastoidal
• mastoidil
• mastoidel
• ceastoid
• histoid
• Hystoid
• Lantoid
• mastoso
• mattioid
• masooud
• masoud
• mastonn
• baseoid
• mastoxis
• Massoit
• Mastoma
• raptoid
• Mastondo
• Mantoir
• Maeoid
• Mastorde
• Mastodied
• Naktoid
• waspoid
• gamteoid

Etymology of MASTOID

The word "mastoid" is derived from two Greek words: "mastós", meaning "breast" or "nipple", and "eidḗs", meaning "resembling" or "like". This term was used to describe the breast-like shape of the mastoid process, which is a bony prominence located behind the ear.

Similar spelling words for MASTOID

• masthead,
• mastodon,
• mastitis,
• masted,
• mastoidale,
• mastoidal,
• mastodont.

Plural form of MASTOID is MASTOIDS