SAGITTAL CREST Meaning and
Definition
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A sagittal crest is a prominent ridge or crest that runs longitudinally along the midline of the cranium in vertebrate animals. It is formed by the enlargement and thickening of the skull's parietal bones, which join together at the top of the head. This crest is most commonly observed in certain species of primates, such as gorillas, baboons, and some hominids, but can also be found in other mammals like dogs and cats.
The sagittal crest serves as a significant attachment site for the temporal muscles, particularly those responsible for biting and chewing. Its development is usually associated with the need for increased strength and power in the jaws, indicative of a species that predominantly consumes tough or fibrous food items. The greater the size of the sagittal crest, the stronger the bite force and chewing capability of the animal.
In addition to facilitating muscle attachment, the sagittal crest also provides structural support to the cranium, helping to distribute and absorb mechanical forces during feeding or other activities that exert pressure on the skull. Moreover, it may have roles in sexual display and dominance hierarchy, given that the size and prominence of the crest can vary between males and females of certain species, as well as within the same sex.
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A prominent ridge along the s. suture of the skull, present in certain animals.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SAGITTAL CREST
- aagittal crest
- zagittal crest
- xagittal crest
- dagittal crest
- eagittal crest
- wagittal crest
- szgittal crest
- ssgittal crest
- swgittal crest
- sqgittal crest
- safittal crest
- savittal crest
- sabittal crest
- sahittal crest
- sayittal crest
- satittal crest
- saguttal crest
- sagjttal crest
- sagkttal crest
- sagottal crest
Etymology of SAGITTAL CREST
The term "sagittal crest" comes from the combination of two words: "sagittal" and "crest".
1. "Sagittal": The word "sagittal" is derived from the Latin word "sagitta", meaning "arrow". In anatomy, it refers to the midline plane dividing the head into left and right halves, resembling an arrow's shaft. The usage of "sagittal" in this context is due to the characteristic shape of the crest.
2. "Crest": The term "crest" comes from the Old English word "crest", which refers to a ridge or top portion of something. It is often used to describe prominent structures or features found in various organisms, including animals. In the case of the sagittal crest, it refers to the ridge that runs along the sagittal plane on top of the skull.
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