fontanel

[fɑːntəˈnel]

fontanel Definition

a space between the bones of the skull in an infant or fetus, where ossification is not complete and the sutures not fully formed.

Using fontanel: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "fontanel" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The doctor checked the baby's fontanel to ensure proper development.

• Example

  The fontanel usually closes by the time the baby is 18 months old.

fontanel Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for fontanel

• soft spot

Phrases with fontanel

• anterior fontanel

  the larger of the two fontanels, located at the top of the head

  Example

  The anterior fontanel usually closes by the time the baby is 18 months old.

• posterior fontanel

  the smaller of the two fontanels, located at the back of the head

  Example

  The posterior fontanel usually closes within a few months after birth.

Origins of fontanel

from French 'fontanelle', diminutive of 'fontaine' meaning 'fountain'

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Summary: fontanel in Brief

'Fontanel' [fɑːntəˈnel] refers to the soft spots on an infant's skull where the bones have not yet fused together. There are two types of fontanels: the larger anterior fontanel located at the top of the head, and the smaller posterior fontanel located at the back of the head. The fontanels usually close within the first 18 months of life.