Acephalia

/ˌeɪ.sɛˈfæl.i.ə/ noun

Definition

The state or condition of being without a head; a developmental abnormality in which an organism or fetus lacks a head.

Etymology

From Greek a- (without) and kephale (head), plus -ia (condition). Medical term from 19th-century obstetrics describing birth defects.

Kelly Says

Acephalia is an extremely rare birth defect where a fetus develops without a head—it's usually incompatible with life but historically fascinated both doctors and the morbidly curious.

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