How Do You Spell MEGACEPHALOUS?

1. Megacephalous is an adjective used to describe an organism or an individual characterized by having an abnormally large or oversized head. The term originates from the combination of the Greek words "mega" meaning large or great, and "cephalus" meaning head.

   When referring to living organisms, particularly humans or animals, megacephalous denotes an anatomical condition where the size of the skull or head substantially exceeds the average proportions seen in the general population. This condition can be attributed to various factors, including genetic abnormalities, anomalies in brain development, or medical conditions that cause excessive growth of the cranium. In such cases, a megacephalous individual may display distinct physical characteristics, such as a visibly enlarged or bulging skull when compared to others of the same age or species.

   Megacephaly can sometimes be seen in certain genetic disorders, such as hydrocephalus, where an excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid leads to an enlarged head. Additionally, conditions like Sotos syndrome or macrocephaly-cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita syndrome can also exhibit megacephaly as one of their features.

   In broader terms, megacephalous can extend beyond literal head size to describe abstract concepts or organizations that possess an exaggerated influence or significance within a particular domain. This figurative use implies an excessive concentration of power, control, or dominance, resembling the enlarged head of an organism.

2. Megacephalic.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for MEGACEPHALOUS

The word "megacephalous" is derived from the combination of two Latin roots: "mega", meaning large, and "cephalus", meaning head. In this context, "megacephalous" refers to an organism or individual with an abnormally large head or skull.