The zygomatic crest, a bony ridge on the outer surface of the temporal bone, can be a challenging word to spell. It is pronounced /zaɪɡəˈmætɪk krɛst/, with the "zyg" at the beginning being pronounced like "zai-g." Additionally, "m" follows "g" in the middle of the word, which can be easy to miss. Remember to also include the "o" in "zygomatic," as it's easy to overlook. With practice and attention to detail, you can spell zygomatic crest perfectly every time.
The zygomatic crest is a prominent bony ridge located on the outer surface of the zygomatic bone, also known as the cheekbone. It is a structure that extends horizontally from the zygomatic process, a protrusion of the temporal bone, towards the front part of the face. The zygomatic crest forms part of the zygomatic arch, a bridge-like structure that supports the sidewalls of the face.
The zygomatic crest serves as a point of attachment for various muscles, tendons, and ligaments that are involved in facial movement and expression. It specifically provides attachment sites for muscles such as the temporalis muscle, which is responsible for closing and retracting the jaw, and the masseter muscle, which aids in chewing. Additionally, the zygomatic crest also provides support for facial structures and helps to maintain the overall shape of the face.
In terms of its anatomical features, the zygomatic crest is typically curved and has a smooth surface. Its size and prominence may vary among individuals, but it is generally well-defined and easily palpable. Its position and characteristics are of clinical significance to healthcare professionals, particularly in the fields of dentistry, maxillofacial surgery, and orthodontics, where knowledge of the zygomatic crest's location and structure is crucial for accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and surgical procedures involving the face.
The portion of the great wing of the sphenoid bone which articulates with the zygomatic bone, margo zygomaticus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "zygomatic" comes from the Greek word "zygoma", which means "a bar for fastening", referring to a yoke or a pair of reins fastened to the head of a horse. It later came to refer to the cheekbone or the bony arch on the side of the face, as it resembles a yoke or a pair of reins.
The word "crest" originates from the Latin word "crista", meaning "tuft" or "plume", which also metaphorically refers to a prominent ridge or a projecting part of an anatomical structure.
Therefore, the term "zygomatic crest" combines the Greek word "zygoma" (cheekbone) and the Latin word "crest" (prominent ridge), describing the prominent ridge-like projection of the zygoma or the cheekbone.