Gyral

/ˈdʒaɪrəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or shaped like the ridges on the brain's surface called gyri.

Etymology

From Latin 'gyrus' meaning circle or ring, combined with the adjective suffix '-al'. The term entered medical vocabulary in the 19th century to describe brain anatomy features.

Kelly Says

Your brain's wrinkled surface isn't random—those ridges (gyri) and grooves increase surface area by up to 2.5 times, letting you pack more thinking power into your skull. That's why humans are so much smarter than smooth-brained creatures!

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