cornu ammonis
The term "cornu ammonis" is Latin for "Ammon's horn" and is used in both anatomy and paleontology, although it is considered obsolete in the latter.
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Definition
C2Anatomy
(technical, academic)A structure in the brain's hippocampus involved in memory and spatial navigation.
Example
- The cornu ammonis plays a critical role in forming new memories.
- Damage to the cornu ammonis can lead to severe memory impairments.
C2Paleontology
(obsolete)An old term for a fossil shell that is coiled like a ram's horn, specifically an ammonite.
Example
- In the 19th century, cornu ammonis was a common term for describing ammonite fossils.
- The distinctive spiral shape of the cornu ammonis fascinated early paleontologists.