Definition

Located above the area where the optic nerves cross in the brain.

Example

The supraoptic nucleus plays a crucial role in hormone regulation.

Conversation

I was reading about the supraoptic nucleus in my biology class.

Oh really? What’s so special about it?

It's interesting because it's located just above the optic chiasma.

That sounds fascinating! I didn't know that about the brain.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Supraoptic → It is formed from "supra-" (meaning above or over) and "optic" (from Greek "optikos", meaning relating to sight or vision). The word "supraoptic" refers to something that is located above the optic nerve or related structures in the visual system.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'above' ('supra-') the 'sight' ('optic') — that's why supraoptic refers to structures located above the visual pathways.

Visually Confused Words