ORBICULARIS Meaning and
Definition
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Orbicularis refers to a term used in anatomy to describe a circular or ring-like structure that is predominantly found in the body, particularly in relation to certain muscles or body parts. Derived from the Latin word "orbis," meaning circle or ring, the term orbicularis typically denotes a muscle or structure that exhibits a circular shape or arrangement.
One of the most commonly referred to orbicularis structures in the human body is the orbicularis oris, which is a circular muscle found around the mouth. This muscle plays a crucial role in controlling the movement and shape of the lips, contributing to actions such as puckering, pursing, and closing the mouth. Another example includes the orbicularis oculi, a circular muscle surrounding the eye that helps in closing the eyelids, blinking, squinting, and expressing certain emotions like surprise or pain.
The term orbicularis can also extend to include non-muscular structures that possess a round or circular shape. For instance, an orbicularis leaf refers to a specific type of leaf that appears round or circular in shape, such as those found in certain plants like Begonia or Tetragonia.
Overall, the term orbicularis in anatomy typically describes circular or ring-like structures, primarily muscles, that are integral to various movements and functions within the human body or other organisms.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ORBICULARIS
Etymology of ORBICULARIS
The word "orbicularis" comes from the Latin term "orbicularis" which means "circular" or "in the form of a small disk or orb". It is derived from the Latin word "orbis" which means "circle" or "disk". The term "orbis" ultimately traces back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*h₃er-", meaning "to move, agitate, spin". The use of the word "orbicularis" in anatomy typically refers to muscles or structures that are circular or shaped like a disc.
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