OCCIPITAL BONE Meaning and
Definition
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The occipital bone is a curved, trapezoidal-shaped bone that is situated at the back and base of the skull. It comprises the posterior part of the cranium and forms the lower and back part of the cranium floor. This bone serves several crucial structural and protective functions.
Anatomically, the occipital bone consists of several prominent features, including the curved squamous part, which is the largest portion of the bone, and the posterior fossa, a concave depression that houses the cerebellum. At the inferior part, there is a slight prominence called the external occipital protuberance, which acts as an attachment point for ligaments and muscles of the neck. Furthermore, the occipital condyles, located on the lateral sides, articulate with the first cervical vertebra, allowing for flexion and extension movements of the skull.
Functionally, the occipital bone provides vital protection for the delicate structures within the cranium, such as the brain, spinal cord, and related blood vessels. Additionally, it serves as an attachment point for various muscles involved in head and neck movement, contributing to overall stability and mobility. Due to its location at the back of the skull, the occipital bone also plays a role in determining the shape and size of the cranial cavity.
In summary, the occipital bone is a vital component of the skull, providing protective support for the brain and spinal cord, serving as an anchor for neck muscles, and contributing to overall cranial structure.
Common Misspellings for OCCIPITAL BONE
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Etymology of OCCIPITAL BONE
The term "occipital bone" has its roots in the Latin language. It derives from the Latin word "occiput", which means "back of the head" or "skull". The Latin word "os" means "bone", and when combined with "occiput", it forms "os occipitis", which translates to "the bone of the occiput". Over time, this Latin phrase evolved into "occipital bone", the term commonly used in anatomy to refer to the bone at the back of the skull.
Similar spelling words for OCCIPITAL BONE
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