noun
Freq #327798
Meanings
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1
noun
A narrow band of facial muscle arising from the fascia over the masseter and inserting into the tissues at the corner of the mouth, which it draws laterally, as is used when smiling.
The risorius draws the corner of the mouth laterally.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
smiling muscle
Etymology
Borrowed from Late Latin rīsōrius (“ridiculous, laughing”), clipping of mūsculus rīsōrius (“laughing muscle”).