How Do You Spell PREAURICULAR?

Pronunciation: [pɹə͡ʊɹˈɪkjʊlə] (IPA)

The word "preauricular" is spelled as "pree-aw-RIK-yuh-ler". This term refers to the location in the body that is situated in front of the ear. The first syllable, "pree", is pronounced with a short "e" sound as in the word "bed". The second syllable, "aw", is pronounced with a short "o" sound as in the word "hot". The third syllable, "RIK", is pronounced with a long "i" sound as in the word "bike". The final syllable, "yuh-ler", is pronounced with a schwa sound followed by "ler".

PREAURICULAR Meaning and Definition

1. The term "preauricular" refers to something that is located or occurs prior to or in front of the auricle, which is the external part of the ear. It specifically relates to anatomical structures or conditions found in this area.

   In the medical field, "preauricular" commonly describes a specific anatomical feature known as preauricular pits or preauricular sinus. These are small, shallow depressions or openings that appear near the front of the ear, typically located on the skin just in front of the ear canal. Preauricular pits are congenital anomalies and are usually harmless; however, in some cases, they can become infected, causing pain, swelling, or drainage.

   Furthermore, "preauricular" may also refer to certain lymph nodes situated in front of the external ear. These lymph nodes, also known as preauricular nodes, are part of the body's immune system and play a role in filtering and trapping foreign substances or pathogens.

   When used in the context of medical examinations, "preauricular" might pertain to different clinical procedures or assessments performed on the area surrounding the auricle. For instance, a preauricular incision denotes a surgical cut made in front of the ear, often utilized for various diagnostic or therapeutic interventions. Similarly, preauricular lymphadenopathy refers to the enlargement or tenderness of the lymph nodes situated in front of the ear, which can be an indicative sign of an underlying infection or inflammation.

   In summary, "preauricular" encompasses various anatomical structures, conditions, or procedures that occur in the area preceding the auricle, including preauricular pits, preauricular lymph nodes, and related medical terminology.

2. In front of the auricle of the ear, noting lymphatic glands so situated.

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

Common Misspellings for PREAURICULAR

• preeauricular
• preauricula
• Preoauricular

Etymology of PREAURICULAR

The word "preauricular" is derived from Latin. It consists of two parts: "pre" and "auricular".

The prefix "pre-" means "before" or "prior to", often indicating something that comes before or is in front of another element.

The term "auricular" comes from the Latin word "auricula", which means "ear". It is derived from "auris", meaning "ear".

Therefore, "preauricular" refers to something that is situated or located in front of or before the ear.