brachycephalic

American  

[brak-ee-suh-fal-ik] / ˌbræk i səˈfæl ɪk /

Also brachycephalous

adjective

Cephalometry.

1. short-headed; having a cephalic index of 81.0–85.4.

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brachycephalic British  

/ ˌbrækɪsɪˈfælɪk /

adjective

1. having a head nearly as broad from side to side as from front to back, esp one with a cephalic index over 80

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noun

1. an individual with such a head

Other Word Forms

• brachycephalism noun
• brachycephaly noun
• hyperbrachycephalic adjective
• hyperbrachycephaly noun

Etymology

Origin of brachycephalic

First recorded in 1840–50; brachy- + -cephalic

Example Sentences

The key is understanding that in order to attain the smoosh-faced look that their fans find aesthetically pleasing, brachycephalic dogs are bred in ways that prioritize style over function.

From Salon • Sep. 4, 2023

Serpell also said that brachycephalic dogs should be kept "lean," adding that they should not be exercised during the warmest times of day: 12 PM to 6 PM.

From Salon • Sep. 4, 2023

Passengers with brachycephalic dogs contend with even fewer choices because of a widespread ban on snub-nosed canines, which are prone to breathing issues.

From Washington Post • Mar. 7, 2023

She is one of the country's leading experts in brachycephalic breeds.

From BBC • Jan. 23, 2023

The skull in the endemic form of cretinism is usually brachycephalic, but in the sporadic cases it is more commonly dolichocephalic.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 7, Slice 6 "Coucy-le-Château" to "Crocodile" by Various