platysma

[ pluh-tiz-muh ]

noun

, Anatomy.

, plural pla·tys·mas, pla·tys·ma·ta [pl, uh, -, tiz, -m, uh, -t, uh],

1. a broad, thin muscle on each side of the neck, extending from the upper part of the shoulder to the corner of the mouth, the action of which wrinkles the skin of the neck and depresses the corner of the mouth.

Word History and Origins

Origin of platysma¹

1685–95; < New Latin < Greek plátysma a plate, literally, something wide and flat, equivalent to platý ( nein ) to widen (derivative of platýs; platy- ) + -sma, variant of -ma resultative suffix

Example Sentences

The platysma myoides, which is well developed on the neck, belongs to this system, but cannot be voluntarily brought into action.

From Project Gutenberg

On cutting through the skin and platysma some small veins may be met with: they should be clamped with forceps and divided.

From Project Gutenberg

I find, to my surprise, whenever I act thus my platysma contracts.

From Project Gutenberg

It must include skin, fascia, and platysma, and the flap must be thrown upwards.

From Project Gutenberg

In only four of the cases was the platysma visibly contracted; and it did not begin to contract until the patients began to cry.

From Project Gutenberg