The zygomatic muscle is a facial muscle that extends from the cheekbone to the corner of the mouth. The spelling of this word is derived from the Greek root, "zygoma," meaning "cheekbone." The IPA phonetic transcription for zygomatic is /zaɪɡəˈmætɪk/. It is pronounced as zy-guh-mat-ik, with the stress on the second syllable. Knowing the IPA phonetic transcription helps us accurately spell complex medical terms and facilitates clearer communication in the healthcare industry.
The zygomatic muscle, also known as the zygomaticus muscle, is a facial muscle located in the upper cheek region of the face. It is responsible for facial expressions and movements related to smiling. It is paired on both sides of the face, extending from the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) to the corner of the mouth.
The zygomatic muscle is a significant component of the muscles involved in facial expression and contributes to the overall appearance of the face. It functions by elevating the corners of the mouth, pulling the lips upwards and outwards, producing the characteristic smile. This muscle is especially active when a genuine or intense smile is portrayed.
Like other facial muscles, the zygomatic muscle is controlled by the seventh cranial nerve, also known as the facial nerve. It works in coordination with other facial muscles to produce a variety of expressions involving the cheeks, mouth, and eyes.
Damage or paralysis of the zygomatic muscle can result in difficulty in smiling or a weakened ability to convey emotions effectively. This muscle is frequently targeted in cosmetic procedures such as botox injections or facelifts to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the face.
See under musculus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "zygomatic muscle" is derived from the Greek term "zygoma", which means "cheekbone". The zygomatic muscle is a facial muscle that is responsible for lifting the corners of the mouth when a person smiles. It is attached to the zygomatic bone, which forms the prominence of the cheekbone.