splenial
|splen-i-al|
/ˈsplɛniəl/
related to 'spleen' root → specific anatomical structure
Etymology
'splenial' originates from New Latin/Modern Latin, ultimately from Greek 'splḗn' (σπλήν) meaning 'spleen', with formation influenced by Latin/Neo-Latin anatomical usage such as 'splenium'.
'splenial' developed via New Latin/Late Latin anatomical formations (compare Latin 'splenium') and entered modern anatomical English as the adjective/noun referring to splenial structures (e.g., splenial bone) in comparative anatomy.
Initially the root referred to the 'spleen' in Greek; over time the root gave rise to anatomical terms (such as 'splenium' and 'splenial') that name specific structures (the splenium of the corpus callosum and the splenial bone), shifting from a general reference to the spleen to specific anatomical senses.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an anatomical bone found on the medial (inner) side of the lower jaw (mandible) in some vertebrates, especially certain fishes and reptiles.
The fossil's mandible preserved a well-developed splenial.
Adjective 1
relating to a splenium (the posterior part of the corpus callosum) or, less commonly/rarely, pertaining to the spleen; used in anatomical contexts.
MRI revealed a small lesion in the splenial region of the corpus callosum.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/11/10 00:18