Encephalocoele

/ˌɛnsɛfəloʊˈsil/ noun

Definition

An alternative spelling of encephalocele; a protrusion of brain tissue through a skull defect, typically present from birth.

Etymology

From Greek enkephalos (brain) + koile (cavity, hernia), variant spelling emphasizing the cavity-like nature of the herniation.

Kelly Says

The -coele versus -cele spelling difference reflects how medical terminology adapted Greek roots into English—both forms are correct, showing how languages evolve even in scientific fields.

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