The term "temporal squama" refers to a bony ridge on the side of the human skull. The spelling of this term can be broken down phonetically using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). "Temporal" is pronounced /ˈtɛmpərəl/, with an emphasis on the first syllable and the second syllable pronounced as "-per-". "Squama" is pronounced /ˈskweɪmə/, with an emphasis on the first syllable and the second syllable pronounced as "-ma". The term "temporal squama" is often used in anatomy and medical literature to describe the skull structure.
The term "temporal squama" refers to a specific anatomical structure found in the human skull. It is part of the temporal bone, which is located on the sides and base of the skull. The temporal squama is the flat, scale-like portion of the temporal bone that forms the lower part of the temporal region.
The temporal squama is situated on the sides of the head, below the parietal bone and behind the frontal bone. It plays a crucial role in protecting and supporting various structures within the skull, including the brain, middle and inner ear, and the intricate network of blood vessels.
The surface of the temporal squama is usually smooth and convex, and it is marked by several prominent landmarks. One of the most notable features is the squamous suture, a distinct, jagged line that separates the temporal squama from the parietal bone. Additionally, small depressions and ridges may be present, serving as attachment sites for muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues.
The temporal squama not only contributes to the structural integrity of the skull but also serves functional purposes. It is involved in the transmission of sound waves, as it houses the middle ear, which contains the eardrum and several ossicles that facilitate hearing. Furthermore, the temporal squama provides essential support to the temples, which are located on its sides and serve as attachment points for various muscles involved in jaw movement and facial expression.
In summary, the temporal squama is a crucial component of the human skull, situated on the sides of the head, protecting vital structures and facilitating important functions such as hearing and facial movement.
Squama temporalis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "temporal squama" is composed of two words: "temporal" and "squama".
The word "temporal" originates from the Latin word "temporalis", which means "pertaining to time". In anatomy, "temporal" refers to anything related to the temples, which are located on the sides of the skull.
The word "squama" comes from the Latin word "squama", meaning "scale" or "thin plate". In anatomy, "squama" is used to describe flat, thin, and scale-like structures, usually referring to bone structures.
Therefore, "temporal squama" refers to the flat, scale-like bone structures related to the temples or temporal region of the skull.