Bucconasal

/ˌbʌkoʊˈneɪzəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to both the mouth and the nasal cavity, describing structures or passages between these regions.

Etymology

Combination of bucco- (from Latin bucca, mouth/cheek) and nasal (from Latin nasus, nose), describing anatomical features connecting oral and nasal structures.

Kelly Says

Your bucconasal anatomy is why you can smell food while eating—scent molecules reach your nose through passages connecting your mouth and nasal cavity, which is why food tastes bland when you have a cold.

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