Cephalic Meaning and Definition
Cephalic
Pronunciation
/sɛˈfælɪk/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Relating to the head or skull;cranial.
Examples
- The cephalic index is used to measure the shape of the human skull.
- The doctor examined the patient’s cephalic region to diagnose the injury.
Synonyms
- Cranial
- Skull-related
Antonyms
- Bodily
- Caudal
Additional Information
Cephalic refers to the area of the head, including the skull, brain, and face. It is commonly used in medical and anatomical contexts to describe features or conditions related to the head. The term is derived from the Greek word “κεφαλή” (kephalē), meaning “head”.
In anthropology, the cephalic index is used to classify human populations based on the shape and size of their skulls. In medicine, cephalic disorders can include conditions such as cephalic trauma or craniosynostosis.
Etymology
The word “cephalic” has its roots in Greek, with “κεφαλή” (kephalē) meaning “head”. The term was later adopted into Latin as “cephalicus”, and eventually into English as “cephalic”.
Usage Notes
When using “cephalic” in a sentence, ensure that it is correctly paired with a noun or phrase that refers to the head or skull. For example, “The doctor examined the patient’s cephalic region” is a correct usage.
Cultural References
The term “cephalic” has been used in various scientific and medical contexts, including anthropology, neurology, and psychiatry. It has also appeared in popular culture, such as in science fiction to describe alien species or advanced technologies.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- None
Related Words or Phrases
- Cranial
- Skull-bound
Collocations
- Cephalic index
- Cephalic vein
Frequency of Use
The word “cephalic” is relatively uncommon in everyday language, but it is frequently used in scientific and medical contexts.