breadth index
Definition
Noun: - A numerical measurement expressed as a percentage, calculated by dividing the maximum width (breadth) of a human skull by its maximum length, and then multiplying by 100. This index is used in anthropology and craniometry to classify skull shapes.
Usage
The term is used in technical, anthropological contexts to describe and categorize human skulls based on their proportions. - The anthropologist calculated the breadth index to determine the cranial type. - A high breadth index indicates a brachycephalic (short and broad) skull shape.
Advanced Usage
- The breadth index is a key metric in the cephalic index system, which is used for racial classification and studying human biological variation (though such classifications are now considered problematic and of limited scientific value).
- It is sometimes referred to in archaeological studies when analyzing skeletal remains from different historical periods or geographic locations.
Variants and Related Words
- Cephalic Index: A more common term that is synonymous with breadth index. It is the ratio of the maximum width of the head to its maximum length.
- Cranial Index: Another synonym, often used interchangeably with cephalic index and breadth index.
Synonyms
- Cephalic Index
- Cranial Index
- Cranial Breadth-Length Index
Related Terms
- Brachycephalic: Adjective describing a skull with a high breadth index (typically over 80).
- Dolichocephalic: Adjective describing a skull with a low breadth index (typically under 75).
- Mesocephalic: Adjective describing a skull with a medium or average breadth index (typically between 75 and 80).
Noun
-
ratio (in percent) of the maximum breadth to the maximum length of a skull
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