SUPRAORBITAL TORUS Meaning and
Definition
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The supraorbital torus, also known as the brow ridge or superciliary arch, is a bony prominence that is located above the eye sockets or orbitals in the human skull. It refers to the thickened ridge of bone that runs horizontally across the forehead, just above the eyes. The supraorbital torus is primarily found in certain anatomical variations of Homo sapiens characterized by robust cranial features, particularly in individuals with a masculine or male morphology.
This anatomical feature serves as a protection and reinforcement of the skull, acting as a natural shield against frontal impacts or trauma. The supraorbital torus provides increased structural strength to the frontal bone, helping absorb forces that might otherwise damage or deform the underlying eye sockets. In addition to its protective function, it may also have played a role in providing attachment sites for the scalp muscles.
The presence and size of the supraorbital torus can vary among individuals and populations. It is more pronounced in certain ancestral groups, such as Neanderthals or some early hominids, compared to modern humans. Its prominence and shape can be influenced by factors such as genetics, sex, age, and environmental adaptation. The supraorbital torus is a significant morphological feature studied in paleoanthropology and forensic anthropology, as it can provide valuable information about evolutionary trends, population dynamics, and individual identification.
Common Misspellings for SUPRAORBITAL TORUS
- aupraorbital torus
- zupraorbital torus
- xupraorbital torus
- dupraorbital torus
- eupraorbital torus
- wupraorbital torus
- sypraorbital torus
- shpraorbital torus
- sjpraorbital torus
- sipraorbital torus
- s8praorbital torus
- s7praorbital torus
- suoraorbital torus
- sulraorbital torus
- su-raorbital torus
- su0raorbital torus
- supeaorbital torus
- supdaorbital torus
- supfaorbital torus
Etymology of SUPRAORBITAL TORUS
The word "supraorbital torus" originates from Latin and English.
1. Supraorbital: The term "supraorbital" comes from the Latin words "supra" meaning "above" or "over", and "orbitalis" meaning "relating to the eye socket". In anatomy, it refers to structures located above or over the eye socket.
2. Torus: "Torus" is a Latin word that means "cushion" or "pad". In anatomy, it refers to a bony prominence or ridge.
Combining these two terms, "supraorbital torus" describes a bony ridge located above the eye socket. It is a characteristic feature found in some primates and early human ancestors.
Similar spelling words for SUPRAORBITAL TORUS
