pterygoid process

/ ˈtɛrɪˌɡɔɪd /

noun

1. anatomy either of two long bony plates extending downwards from each side of the sphenoid bone within the skull

Word History and Origins

Origin of pterygoid process¹

C18 pterygoid, from Greek pterugoeidēs, from pterux wing; see _-oid

Example Sentences

A posterior pterygoid process from the palatine projects posteromedially from the end of the palatine and overlaps the anterior end of the pterygoid.

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Both the lateral and posterior pterygoid processes are approximately 2.0 mm. wide.

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The posterior pterygoid, in turn, arose by tendons from the adjoining lateral ridge and from the pterygoid process of Romer and Price.

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Vesalius gives a good account of the sphenoid bone, with its large and small wings and its pterygoid processes; and he accurately describes the vestibule in the interior of the temporal bone.

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The basioccipital does not have noticeable pterygoid processes, but is rather smooth ventrally and only slightly emarginate on its posterolateral margins.

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