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== Superior Nuchal Line ==

The '''Superior Nuchal Line''' (pronunciation: soo-PEER-ee-or NOO-kal line) is a bony ridge located on the back of the [[Human skull|human skull]] that serves as an attachment point for several important muscles and ligaments.

=== Etymology ===

The term "Superior Nuchal Line" originates from the Latin words 'superior', meaning 'higher', and 'nuchal', which is derived from 'nucha', meaning 'nape of the neck'. The 'line' refers to the linear nature of this bony ridge.

=== Anatomy ===

The Superior Nuchal Line extends laterally from the [[External occipital protuberance|external occipital protuberance]], a prominent bump on the lower back of the skull. It serves as the point of attachment for several muscles, including the [[Trapezius muscle|trapezius]], [[Sternocleidomastoid muscle|sternocleidomastoid]], and [[Splenius capitis muscle|splenius capitis]].

=== Related Terms ===

* [[External occipital protuberance]]: A bony prominence on the back of the skull, from which the Superior Nuchal Line extends.
* [[Trapezius muscle]]: One of the major muscles to which the Superior Nuchal Line serves as an attachment point.
* [[Sternocleidomastoid muscle]]: Another muscle that attaches to the Superior Nuchal Line.
* [[Splenius capitis muscle]]: This muscle also attaches to the Superior Nuchal Line.

=== See Also ===

* [[Inferior nuchal line]]: A similar bony ridge located below the Superior Nuchal Line.
* [[Nuchal ligament]]: A ligament that attaches to the Superior Nuchal Line.

[[Category:Anatomy]]
[[Category:Skull]]
[[Category:Medical Dictionary]]

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