Hemiglossal

/ˌhɛmɪˈɡlɑsəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or affecting only one side of the tongue.

Etymology

From 'hemi-' (half) + 'glossal' (relating to the tongue, from Greek 'glossa'). This medical term describes conditions that involve only the left or right side of the tongue.

Kelly Says

Hemiglossal paralysis is a telltale sign of a stroke—when someone can't stick their tongue straight out because one side is weak, doctors know exactly which brain hemisphere got hit!

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