frenum
|fre-num|
/ˈfriːnəm/
small restraining fold / bridle
Etymology
'frenum' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'frenum', where it meant 'bridle' or 'rein'.
'frenum' passed into English via Medieval and New Latin usage in anatomical and scholarly texts, retaining the Latin form 'frenum'.
Initially it meant 'bridle' or 'rein' in Latin; over time the term came to be used in anatomy for a small fold of tissue that 'restrains' motion, giving the modern anatomical sense.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a small fold or band of tissue that restricts the movement of an organ or part, such as the fold under the tongue (lingual frenum) or between the lip and gum (labial frenum).
The dentist examined the child's frenum to see if it was causing speech or feeding problems.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/12/11 07:03