pterygoid process

/ ˈtɛrɪˌɡɔɪd /

noun

1. anatomy either of two long bony plates extending downwards from each side of the sphenoid bone within the skull

Word History and Origins

Origin of pterygoid process¹

C18 pterygoid, from Greek pterugoeidēs, from pterux wing; see -oid

Example Sentences

A posterior pterygoid process from the palatine projects posteromedially from the end of the palatine and overlaps the anterior end of the pterygoid.

From Project Gutenberg

Both the lateral and posterior pterygoid processes are approximately 2.0 mm. wide.

From Project Gutenberg

The posterior pterygoid, in turn, arose by tendons from the adjoining lateral ridge and from the pterygoid process of Romer and Price.

From Project Gutenberg

Vesalius gives a good account of the sphenoid bone, with its large and small wings and its pterygoid processes; and he accurately describes the vestibule in the interior of the temporal bone.

From Project Gutenberg

The basioccipital does not have noticeable pterygoid processes, but is rather smooth ventrally and only slightly emarginate on its posterolateral margins.

From Project Gutenberg