brachycephalic

[ brak-ee-suh-fal-ik ]

adjective

, Cephalometry.

1. short-headed; having a cephalic index of 81.0–85.4.

brachycephalic

/ ˌbrækɪsɪˈfælɪk /

adjective

1. having a head nearly as broad from side to side as from front to back, esp one with a cephalic index over 80

noun

1. an individual with such a head

Derived Forms

• ˌbrachyˈcephaly, noun

Other Words From

• brach·y·ceph·a·ly [brak-ee-, sef, -, uh, -lee], brachy·cepha·lism noun
• hyper·brachy·ce·phalic adjective
• hyper·brachy·cepha·ly noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of brachycephalic¹

First recorded in 1840–50; brachy- + -cephalic

Example Sentences

The key is understanding that in order to attain the smoosh-faced look that their fans find aesthetically pleasing, brachycephalic dogs are bred in ways that prioritize style over function.

From Salon

Passengers with brachycephalic dogs contend with even fewer choices because of a widespread ban on snub-nosed canines, which are prone to breathing issues.

From Washington Post

She is one of the country's leading experts in brachycephalic breeds.

From BBC

Indeed, he warned that if brachycephalic dogs continue to be inbred at current rates, they may not exist in the near future.

From Salon

"While these extreme, unhealthy characteristics remain, we will continue to strongly recommend potential owners do not buy brachycephalic breeds such as pugs," Justine Shotton, president of the British Veterinary Association added.

From BBC