Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

glossopharyngeal

adjective
/ˌɡlɒs.oʊ.fəˈrɪn.dʒi.əl/
Definition
Relating to the glossopharyngeal nerve, which is the ninth cranial nerve responsible for various functions in the tongue and throat.
Examples
  • The glossopharyngeal nerve plays a crucial role in taste sensation.
  • Disorders of the glossopharyngeal nerve may lead to difficulty in swallowing.
Meaning
The term glossopharyngeal indicates something connected to both the tongue (glosso) and the pharynx (throat).
Synonyms
  • None specifically, but related terms include vagal (related to the vagus nerve) and pharyngeal.