Pronunciation: [ˌaŋkɪlət͡ʃˈɪli͡ə] (IPA) 
Ankylochilia is a medical term that refers to the fusion or joining of the upper and lower lips. Its pronunciation can be broken down into several sounds, as represented by the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The "a" in "ankylo" is pronounced as [æ], the "k" is [k], the "y" in "chilia" is [j], and the "ch" is [k]. The final "ia" is pronounced as [iə]. In total, ankylochilia is pronounced as [ˌæŋkɪloʊˈkɪliə].
Ankylochilia is a medical term that refers to a rare congenital abnormality, particularly affecting the mouth and lips. It is derived from the combination of two Greek words, "ankylos," meaning "stiff" or "rigid," and "chéilos," meaning "lip." This condition is characterized by the fusion or adhesion of the lips, resulting in a limited or restricted opening of the mouth.
Individuals born with ankylochilia have a noticeable malformation of the lips, which are abnormally joined together, and this fusion can occur either partially or completely. The severity of ankylochilia varies among affected individuals, and it may occur as a standalone anomaly or be associated with other congenital disorders.
People with ankylochilia experience difficulty in performing various activities related to the mouth and lips, such as speaking, eating, drinking, and maintaining good oral hygiene. It can significantly affect a person's overall quality of life, particularly in terms of social interactions and self-esteem.
The exact cause of ankylochilia remains unknown, although it is believed to be the result of abnormal embryonic development during the formation of the lips. Treatment options usually involve surgical intervention to separate or release the fused lip tissues, thereby enabling proper mouth opening.
In conclusion, ankylochilia is a medical condition characterized by the fusion of the lips, impairing the normal functioning of the mouth. It is a rare congenital abnormality that often requires medical intervention and may have a significant impact on an individual's daily activities and emotional well-being.
Adhesion of the lips to each other.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "ankylochilia" is derived from a combination of two Greek roots. "Ankylo-" comes from the Greek word "ángkylos" (ἄγκυλος), meaning "bent or crooked", while "chilia" is derived from the Greek word "cheilos" (χεῖλος), which means "lip". Consequently, "ankylochilia" refers to a condition where the lips are fused together or have limited movement, causing them to appear crooked or bent.
