PALATOGLOSSUS Meaning and
Definition
-
Palatoglossus is a term that refers to a specific muscle located in the oral cavity. It is a small, paired muscle that forms part of the oropharyngeal muscles, which are responsible for various movements and functions involving the tongue, pharynx, and palate.
The palatoglossus muscle originates from the soft palate, specifically from the palatine aponeurosis, which is a connective tissue structure that helps to support the soft palate. From its origin, the muscle extends downwards and forwards, eventually inserting into the side of the tongue. It forms a muscular fold called the palatoglossal arch, which partially separates the oropharynx from the oral cavity.
The primary function of the palatoglossus muscle is to help control and assist in the movements of the tongue. It has a vital role in swallowing and speaking processes. During swallowing, it contracts to elevate and retract the tongue, closing off the oropharynx and preventing food or liquid from entering the airway. It also aids in pushing the food bolus towards the back of the throat for swallowing.
In terms of innervation, the palatoglossus muscle receives motor innervation from the vagus nerve, particularly the cranial root of the accessory nerve (CN XI). This innervation allows for voluntary control and coordination of the muscle's actions.
Overall, the palatoglossus muscle plays a significant role in the complex processes of swallowing and speaking, contributing to the overall functionality and efficiency of the oral cavity and pharynx.
-
The palatoglossal muscule; see under musculus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PALATOGLOSSUS
- palatoglossa
- oalatoglossus
- lalatoglossus
- -alatoglossus
- 0alatoglossus
- pzlatoglossus
- pslatoglossus
- pwlatoglossus
- pqlatoglossus
- pakatoglossus
- papatoglossus
- paoatoglossus
- palztoglossus
- palstoglossus
- palwtoglossus
- palqtoglossus
- palaroglossus
- palafoglossus
- palagoglossus
- palayoglossus
Etymology of PALATOGLOSSUS
The word "palatoglossus" is derived from two Latin components: "palato" and "glossus".
1. "Palato": This word derives from the Latin noun "palatum", which means "palate" or "roof of the mouth".
2. "Glossus": This word comes from the Latin noun "glossa", which means "tongue".
Therefore, the word "palatoglossus" combines these two Latin terms, with "palato-" referring to the palate and "-glossus" denoting the tongue. The palatoglossus is a muscle found in the mouth that connects the tongue to the palate.
