premaxilla

[ pree-mak-sil-uh ]

noun

, Anatomy, Zoology.

, plural pre·max·il·lae [pree-mak-, sil, -ee].

1. one of a pair of bones of the upper jaw of vertebrates, situated in front of and between the maxillary bones.

premaxilla

/ ˌpriːmækˈsɪlə /

noun

1. either of two bones situated in the upper jaw between the maxillary bones

Derived Forms

• ˌpremaxˈillary, adjective

Other Words From

• pre·max·il·lar·y [pree-, mak, -s, uh, -ler-ee], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of premaxilla¹

From the New Latin word praemaxilla, dating back to 1865–70. See pre-, maxilla

Example Sentences

Body of the premaxilla pointed and slightly decurved; its length and breadth less than the basis cranii.

From Project Gutenberg

These three teeth, which are implanted in the premaxilla, form a distinct group, to which the name of “incisor” is applied.

From Project Gutenberg

The proximal extremity of the left premaxilla is lacking and also the tip of the beak.

From Project Gutenberg

Premaxillæ approximated, and right premaxilla with an angular process near base of rostrum overlapping mesirostral ossification.

From Project Gutenberg

Right premaxilla on a line with maxillary notches strongly concave and sunk below level of maxillæ.

From Project Gutenberg