orthognathous, infundibuliform, ginglymoid, voluble, petrous: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Ultra set 119. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. orthognathous · adjective/ɔrθəɡˈnæθəs/

   having a straight or upright jaw

   The orthognathous structure of the skull provides a balanced and symmetrical facial appearance.

   Synonyms: straight-jawed, upright-jawed, even-jawed

   Origin: The word 'orthognathous' originates from the Greek 'orthos' meaning 'straight' or 'right' and 'gnathos' meaning 'jaw'.

2. infundibuliform · adjective/ˌɪn.fʌn.dɪˈbju.lɪ.fɔrm/

   shaped like a funnel

   The infundibuliform shape of the metal funnel made it easy to pour liquids without spilling.

   Synonyms: funnel-shaped, conical, tapered

   Origin: Latin 'infundibulum', meaning 'funnel', from 'in' (in) + 'fundere' (to pour)

3. ginglymoid · adjective/ˈdʒɪŋɡəˌlɔɪd/

   relating to or having the characteristics of a hinge

   The ginglymoid joints in the human body allow for a range of motion, similar to that of a traditional hinge.

   Synonyms: hinge-like, hinged, articulating

   Origin: from Greek 'gingylos' meaning 'hinge' combined with the suffix '-oid' meaning 'like' or 'resembling'

4. voluble · adjective/ˈvɑː.ljə.bəl/

   characterized by a ready and continuous flow of words

   During the meeting, her voluble discussion about the project's progress kept everyone engaged and informed.

   Synonyms: talkative, loquacious, chatty

   Origin: Late Latin 'volubilis', from 'volvere' meaning 'to roll' or 'to turn over'

5. petrous · adjective/ˈpɛtrəs/

   relating to the hardest, densest part of the temporal bone in the skull

   The petrous bone provides critical protection for the inner ear structures due to its dense composition.

   Synonyms: rocky, stony, hard

   Origin: From Latin 'petrosus', meaning 'rocky', derived from 'petra', meaning 'rock'.