mastoid process

noun

a large, bony prominence on the base of the skull behind the ear, containing air spaces that connect with the middle ear cavity.
Also called mastoid, mastoid bone.

Origin of mastoid process

First recorded in 1725–35

Words nearby mastoid process

mastoid canaliculus, mastoid cell, mastoid emissary vein, mastoid foramen, mastoid part, mastoid process, mastoid sinus, mastoidectomy, mastoideocentesis, mastoiditis, mastoidotomy

Medical definitions for mastoid process

mastoid process

n.

A conical protuberance of the posterior portion of the temporal bone that is situated behind the ear and serves as a site of muscle attachment. mastoid bone
The part of the first pharyngeal arch in the embryo, developing into the upper jaw in the embryo.

Scientific definitions for mastoid process

mastoid process
[ măs′toid′ ]

A protruding bony area in the lower part of the skull that is located behind the ear in humans and many other vertebrates and serves as a site of muscle attachment. The mastoid process contains small air-filled cavities called mastoid cells that communicate with the middle ear.