Anterior view of the sphenoid bone

Both these root terms have their origin from the Greek [πτέρυγα] (ptéryga) and mean "wing".

In human anatomy the most common use of this root term is in the word [pterygoid]. Since the suffix [-oid] means "similar to", the word pterygoid means "similar to a wing", or "wing-like".

On the inferior aspect of the sphenoid bone (os sphenoidale) there are two very thin bat-wing-like bony appendages that are called the lateral and medial pterygoid plates. The medial pterygoid plate has a hook-like bony appendage called the hamulus (Latin: little hook).

Related to the pterygoid plates are the lateral and medial pterygoid muscles, both these muscles aid inthe process of mastication.

The root term [pter-] can be found in words such as [pterodactyl] meaning "winged finger", it refers to a phrehistoric winged animal; [pteranodon], and [pterosaurus].

Sources:
1 "Tratado de Anatomia Humana" Testut et Latarjet 8 Ed. 1931 Salvat Editores, Spain
2. "Anatomy of the Human Body" Henry Gray 1918. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger
Image modified by CAA, Inc. Original image courtesy of bartleby.com

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