How Do You Spell OPISTHOTIC?

Pronunciation: [ˌɒpɪsθˈɒtɪk] (IPA)

The word "Opisthotic" is a term used in anatomy to describe a bone behind the ear in many vertebrates. The spelling of the word can be a bit tricky, but the IPA phonetic transcription helps to clarify it. The phonetic transcription for Opisthotic is /ɒpɪsˈθɒtɪk/. This means that the first syllable is pronounced "op" with a short "o" sound, followed by "i" with a short "i" sound, and "s" with a soft "s" sound. The following syllables are pronounced with a short "o" sound, "θ" with a hard "th" sound, "ɒ" with a short "o" sound, "t" with a hard "t" sound, and "ɪk" with a short "i" sound.

OPISTHOTIC Meaning and Definition

1. Opisthotic is a term used in anatomy and paleontology to describe a specific bone found in the rear portion of the skull of vertebrate animals, particularly amphibians, reptiles, and certain extinct species. The opisthotic bone is situated at the base of the cranium and is often located near the otic capsule, which encloses the inner ear.

   The opisthotic bone serves as a point of attachment for various muscles and ligaments that control the movement and positioning of the skull. Its shape and structure can vary between species, with some possessing a prominent and distinct opisthotic bone, while others may have a more subtle or fused version.

   This bone plays a crucial role in the stabilization and mobility of the skull, particularly in relation to the auditory and balance systems of the animal. It aids in transmitting sound vibrations from the environment to the inner ear and contributes to the regulation of body orientation and equilibrium.

   The opisthotic bone is an important anatomical feature studied by researchers and paleontologists to understand the evolutionary relationships and changes in various vertebrate species over time. By examining the characteristics and variations of the opisthotic bone, scientists can gain insights into the functional adaptations and ecological behavior of the organisms in which it is present.

2. Behind the ear.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for OPISTHOTIC

• ipisthotic
• kpisthotic
• lpisthotic
• ppisthotic
• 0pisthotic
• 9pisthotic
• ooisthotic
• olisthotic
• o-isthotic
• o0isthotic
• opusthotic
• opjsthotic
• opksthotic
• oposthotic
• op9sthotic
• op8sthotic
• opiathotic
• opizthotic
• opixthotic
• opidthotic

Etymology of OPISTHOTIC

The word "opisthotic" is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "opistho" meaning "behind" or "at the back", and "otic" meaning "relating to the ear". Therefore, "opisthotic" refers to a bone located at the back of the ear.