Definition

1. Noun:
   • The outer corner of the eye: The "temporal canthus" is the point where the upper and lower eyelids meet on the side of the face nearest to the temple. It is the lateral angle of the eye fissure.

Usage

• The term "temporal canthus" is a specific anatomical term. It is used in medical, anatomical, and biological contexts to describe eye structure with precision.
• It is typically used in formal writing, clinical descriptions, or scientific discussions.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The surgeon made a small incision near the temporal canthus.
  • Redness and swelling were observed at the temporal canthus.
  • The lateral ligament attaches to the bony orbit at the temporal canthus.

Advanced Usage

• Clinical Description: Used to specify the location of symptoms, injuries, or surgical sites.
  • The lesion was located 2 mm medial to the temporal canthus.
• Comparative Anatomy: Used when describing eye placement or structure in different species.
  • In many predatory birds, the temporal canthus is more pronounced.

Variants and Related Words

• Canthus (n): The general term for either corner of the eye where the upper and lower eyelids meet. The "temporal canthus" is the outer canthus; the inner one is the "nasal canthus" or "medial canthus".
• Lateral canthus (n): A synonym for "temporal canthus".
• Commissure (n): In anatomy, a junction or seam. The canthi are sometimes referred to as the palpebral commissures.

Synonyms

• Outer corner of the eye: A common, non-technical description.
• Lateral canthus: An exact synonym used in anatomical terminology.
• External canthus: A less common but acceptable synonym.

Antonyms

• Nasal canthus (n): The inner corner of the eye, nearest to the nose.
• Medial canthus (n): A synonym for nasal canthus.

Related Phrases

• Canthal tilt: A term often used in cosmetic and oculoplastic surgery describing the angle of the canthus.
  • A positive canthal tilt, where the temporal canthus is slightly higher than the medial canthus, is often considered aesthetically pleasing.

Noun

1. the outer corner of the eye