hypoglossal nerve

noun

, Anatomy.

1. either one of the twelfth pair of cranial nerves, consisting of motor fibers that innervate the muscles of the tongue.

hypoglossal nerve

noun

1. the twelfth cranial nerve, which supplies the muscles of the tongue

Word History and Origins

Origin of hypoglossal nerve¹

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

Just external to the foramen magnum is a small foramen for the exit of the hypoglossal nerve (figs. 44 and 45, XII).

From Project Gutenberg

Some branches of the cervical plexus, and the hypoglossal nerve are also shown.

From Project Gutenberg