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sphenoid Definition

sphe·noid (sfē′no̵id′)

adjective

  1. wedge-shaped
  2. Anat. designating or of the wedge-shaped compound bones of the skull

Etymology: ModL sphenoides < Gr sphēnoeides: see sphene & -oid

noun

  1. the sphenoid bone
  2. Mineralogy a wedge-shaped crystal form having four triangular faces

sphenoid Usage Examples

Modifies a noun

  • sinus: Note also the blood in the sphenoid sinuses, consistent with a basal skull fracture.
  • bone: A portion of the sphenoid bone was broken off.