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Parietal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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parietal

[pษ™หˆraษช.ษช.tษ™l ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

anatomy, biology

The term 'parietal' refers to structures that are related to the walls of a cavity or a body part. In anatomy, it is often used to describe bones or other tissues that form part of the skull or body cavity walls. In a broader biological context, it can refer to plant structures like parietal placentation in flowers. The use of 'parietal' in a medical context may also relate to the parietal lobe of the brain, which is responsible for processing sensory information.

Synonyms

cavity-associated, external, wall-related.

Examples of usage

  • The parietal lobe processes sensory information.
  • Parietal bones protect the brain.
  • The parietal membrane lines the abdominal cavity.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Anatomy

  • There are two parietal bones, each located on the left and right sides of the skull.
  • These bones play a significant role in forming the top and sides of the cranial vault, providing structure and support.
  • In humans, the parietal bones grow and fuse during childhood, typically completing by age 16.

Neuroscience

  • The parietal lobes of the brain, located just beneath the parietal bones, are essential for processing sensory information.
  • They help us understand where our body is in space and how to interact with the world around us.

Cultural Significance

  • Parietal art refers to wall paintings found in caves, showcasing early human creativity.
  • Some scientists theorize that the term 'parietal' relates back to these ancient wall artworks, emphasizing the connection to walls.

Medical Context

  • Issues with the parietal bones can lead to conditions like craniosynostosis, where cranial sutures fuse prematurely.
  • Surgeons often work with the parietal bones in procedures involving the brain, illustrating their importance in neurosurgery.

Origin of 'parietal'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'parietalis', meaning 'of or belonging to a wall'.
  • It reflects how these bones form the walls of the skull, encasing and protecting the brain.

The word 'parietal' originates from the Latin word 'parietalis', which means 'of or belonging to a wall', derived from 'paries', meaning 'wall'. This term has been used since the late 16th century primarily in the context of anatomy and has since expanded into various scientific disciplines. Its usage in biology points to its context-specific applications, such as in botany where it describes certain plant structures. Over the years, the term has been pivotal in fields such as neuroanatomy and comparative anatomy, reflecting its importance in understanding the structural complexities of both plants and animals.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,456, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.