Definition

1. Noun:
   • Anatomy: The zygoma is the slender, arch-shaped bone that forms the prominence of the cheek and the outer sidewall of the eye socket. It connects the cheekbone to the temporal bone at the side of the skull.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The boxer suffered a fracture to his zygoma after the powerful punch.
  • In forensic anthropology, the shape of the zygoma can help in facial reconstruction.
  • The surgeon made an incision along the zygoma to access the deeper structures.

Advanced Usage

• "Zygomatic arch": This is a common synonym for the zygoma, emphasizing its arch-like structure.
  • The masseter muscle, used for chewing, passes beneath the zygomatic arch.
• "Zygomatic process": This term refers to the projecting parts of bones (like the temporal bone or maxilla) that connect to form the zygoma.
  • The fracture involved the zygomatic process of the temporal bone.

Variants and Related Words

• Zygomatic (adj): Relating to the zygoma.
  • The zygomatic bone is a key component of the facial skeleton.
• Zygomata (n): The plural form of zygoma, though "zygomas" is also acceptable.
  • The skull exhibited prominent zygomata.

Synonyms

• Cheekbone: A common, non-technical term for the prominent part of the zygoma.
• Malar bone: An older anatomical term for the zygomatic bone.
• Zygomatic arch: The arch formed by the zygoma.

Related Phrases

• Zygomaticus major: A facial muscle that draws the angle of the mouth upward and backward, attached to the zygoma.
  • The zygomaticus major muscle is responsible for smiling.

Noun

1. the slender arch formed by the temporal process of the cheekbone that bridges to the zygomatic process of the temporal bone