palatoglossal arch

noun

pal·​a·​to·​glos·​sal arch ˌpal-ət-ō-ˌgläs-əl-, -ˌglȯs- How to pronounce palatoglossal arch (audio)
: the more anterior of the two ridges of soft tissue at the back of the mouth on each side that curves downward from the uvula to the side of the base of the tongue forming a recess for the palatine tonsil as it diverges from the palatopharyngeal arch and that is composed of part of the palatoglossus with its covering of mucous membrane

called also anterior pillar of the fauces, glossopalatine arch

Dictionary Entries Near palatoglossal arch

Cite this Entry

“Palatoglossal arch.” Merriam-Webster.com Medical Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/palatoglossal%20arch. Accessed 18 Apr. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!