epicranium

[ ep-i-krey-nee-uh m ]

/ ˌɛp ɪˈkreɪ ni əm /

|

noun, plural ep·i·cra·ni·a [ep-i-krey-nee-uh] /ˌɛp ɪˈkreɪ ni ə/.

Anatomy. the layer of scalp formed by muscle and flattened tendon.

Entomology. the top of the head in insects, usually including the frons, genae, and vertex.

Nearby words

epicondyle, epicondylitis, epicontinental, epicotyl, epicranial muscle, epicranium, epicrisis, epicritic, epictetus, epicure, epicurean

Origin of epicranium

First recorded in 1885–90; epi- + cranium

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for epicranium

Clypeal suture: marks the division between clypeus and epicranium.
Explanation of Terms Used in Entomology|John. B. Smith
The head is extended from behind forwards, so that the crown (epicranium) is large, while the face (clypeus) is small.
Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 6, Slice 6|Various
Epicranial plate: in some larvae a plate-like structure forming the epicranium.
Explanation of Terms Used in Entomology|John. B. Smith
Above is the crown (vertex or epicranium), on which or on the “front” may be seated three simple eyes (ocelli).
Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 13, Slice 4|Various

Protocranium: the posterior part of the epicranium: sometimes used as Occiput.
Explanation of Terms Used in Entomology|John. B. Smith

Medicine definitions for epicranium

epicranium

[ ĕp′ĭ-krā′nē-əm ]

n. pl. ep•i•cra•ni•ums

The structures covering the cranium.

The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.