Definition

The bone that forms the high part of the face below the eye, contributing to the structure of the cheek.

Example

She has high cheekbones that give her face a striking appearance.

Conversation

I just noticed how defined your cheekbone looks in that photo!

Thanks! I guess it's just good lighting or something.

No way, it really stands out!

I appreciate it, I've been trying to take better care of my skin.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cheekbone is formed from "cheek" (from Old English *ceace*, meaning the fleshy part of the face) and "bone" (from Old English *ban*, meaning a hard structure that forms the skeleton). The word "cheekbone" refers to the bony structure that forms the prominence of the cheek.

Memory Tip

Think of the fleshy part of the face ('cheek') combined with the hard structure ('bone') to remember that a cheekbone is the bony part of the cheek.

Visually Confused Words