Cuspal

/ˈkʌspəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or forming a cusp; pointed or having a sharp projecting part.

Etymology

From Latin 'cuspis' (point, spear) plus the adjective suffix '-al'. A technical anatomical or botanical term used since the 19th century.

Kelly Says

Your canine teeth are cuspal—this dental term reminds us that our mouths are designed for tearing meat, a fact our language preserves in this Latinate adjective about our animal ancestry.

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