Definition

Relating to the middle or center, especially in the context of the mouth or teeth.

Example

The dentist pointed out that the mesial surface of the tooth was decayed.

Conversation

I just learned about the mesial surface of teeth in my dental class.

Oh really? I didn't know there was a specific term for that.

Yeah, it refers to the side of the tooth that's closest to the middle of your mouth.

That's interesting! I guess it makes sense to have these specific terms in dentistry.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mesial → It is derived from the Latin word "medius" (meaning middle) and the suffix "-al" (meaning pertaining to). The term "mesial" refers to something that is related to or situated in the middle, particularly in dental terminology where it describes the surface of a tooth that is closest to the midline of the dental arch.

Memory Tip

Think of 'middle' ('medius') to remember that 'mesial' refers to something that is related to the middle, especially in the context of teeth.

Visually Confused Words