Definition

Noun: - A numerical value, expressed as a percentage, that represents the ratio of the maximum width of a human skull to its maximum length. It is used in anthropology and craniometry to classify skull shapes.

Usage

The cephalic index is a measurement used to categorize human skulls into basic shape types (e.g., dolichocephalic, mesocephalic, brachycephalic). It is calculated by dividing the maximum breadth (width) of the skull by its maximum length and multiplying the result by 100.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The anthropologist calculated the cephalic index of the ancient skull to be 85, classifying it as brachycephalic.
  • Studies of population genetics often analyze variations in the cephalic index across different regions.

Advanced Usage

• "to have a high/low cephalic index": Describes a skull that is relatively broad or narrow, respectively.
  • Populations adapted to cold climates tend to have a higher cephalic index.

Variants and Related Words

• Cranial Index: A synonymous term for cephalic index.
• Dolichocephalic (adj): Having a long, narrow skull (low cephalic index).
• Mesocephalic (adj): Having a medium or average skull proportion.
• Brachycephalic (adj): Having a short, broad skull (high cephalic index).

Synonyms

• Cranial Index
• Skull Index

Notes on Meaning

This term is specific to the fields of physical anthropology, anatomy, and archaeology. It is a technical descriptor and is not used in everyday conversation.

Noun

1. ratio (in percent) of the maximum breadth to the maximum length of a skull