facial nerve

noun

, Anatomy.

1. either one of the seventh pair of cranial nerves composed of motor fibers that control muscles of the face except those used in chewing.

facial nerve

noun

1. the seventh cranial nerve, supplying the muscles controlling facial expression, glands of the palate and nose, and the taste buds in the anterior two-thirds of the tongue

Word History and Origins

Origin of facial nerve¹

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

Facial Nerve, a motor nerve which supplies the muscles of expression on either side of the face.

From Project Gutenberg

Below and anterior to the facial nerve through the promontory.

From Project Gutenberg

(iii) If there be facial nerve paralysis the result of pressure from the foreign body.

From Project Gutenberg

The facial nerve may also be injured whilst curetting away granulations in the upper posterior part of the tympanic cavity.

From Project Gutenberg

It is this accidental slipping of the instrument which is often responsible for injury to the lateral sinus or the facial nerve.

From Project Gutenberg