Definition

Related to the back part of the skull or the occipital bone.

Example

The doctor examined the patient for any signs of an occipital injury.

Conversation

Did you know that the brain has an occipital lobe responsible for vision?

Really? I had no idea it was called that.

Yeah, it's fascinating how specific parts of the brain have different functions.

Totally! I should read more about the occipital lobe and its role.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A bone located at the back of the skull that helps protect the brain and supports the structure of the head.

Example

The doctor explained that the occipital is crucial for protecting the brain.

Conversation

I just learned about the occipital bone in my anatomy class.

Oh really? What does it do?

It's located at the back of the skull and protects the brain.

Root Explanation

Occipital → It is formed from "ob-" (meaning against or toward) and "caput" (meaning head). The term refers to the part of the skull that is located at the back of the head, hence it is the area that is toward the back of the head.

Memory Tip

Think of the part of the skull that is 'toward' ('ob-') the 'head' ('caput') — that's why occipital refers to the back of the head.

Visually Confused Words