Cheekbone Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
😄
cheekbone
[ˈtʃiːkboʊn ]
Definition
facial anatomy
The cheekbone, also known as the zygomatic bone, is a prominent bone located in the face. It forms the lateral wall and floor of the orbit and supports the eyes. This bone plays a crucial role in the facial structure and aesthetics, contributing to the contour and depth of the face. Cheekbones also provide attachment points for various facial muscles, influencing expressions and movements.
Synonyms
malar bone, zygomatic bone.
Examples of usage
- She has high cheekbones that enhance her beauty.
- The artist emphasized the cheekbones in his portrait.
- He broke his cheekbone during the football match.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Anatomy
- The cheekbone is also known as the zygomatic bone, which helps form the structure of the face.
- Cheekbones play a significant role in facial aesthetics, often giving a face a more defined look.
- They are connected to other facial bones and support the muscles that help with expression and movement.
Cultural Significance
- In various cultures, prominent cheekbones are often associated with beauty, vitality, and youthfulness.
- Different makeup techniques, like contouring, are used to enhance cheekbones, showing their importance in beauty standards.
- In some art forms, such as sculpture and painting, exaggerated cheekbones can signify character traits or emotional states.
Pop Culture
- Many celebrities are noted for their high cheekbones, contributing to their iconic looks, such as models and actors.
- Movies often depict characters with sharp cheekbones to signify strength or villainy in contrast to softer features that represent innocence.
Health and Aging
- As people age, their cheekbones can appear less prominent due to the loss of fat in the face, which affects overall facial volume.
- Dermal fillers are sometimes used to enhance the appearance of cheekbones, especially in cosmetic procedures.
Historical Context
- Cheekbones have been studied by anthropologists to understand human evolution and physical variations among populations.
- In ancient civilizations, the features of the face, including cheekbones, were often idealized in sculptures and paintings to reflect cultural ideals.
Origin of 'cheekbone'
The word 'cheekbone' originated in the Middle English era, combining 'cheek', which comes from the Old English 'ceace' meaning 'the side of the face', and 'bone', derived from the Old English 'ban', meaning 'bone; part of the skeleton'. The term 'cheek' has been used for many centuries to describe this part of the face, while 'bone' has always been a fundamental term in anatomy. The specific term 'cheekbone' began to be used more regularly in the English language around the 15th century as anatomical understanding improved. The zygomatic bone itself plays a significant roles not only in human aesthetics but also in functions such as chewing and breathing by providing essential support to the facial structure.