# parietal

/pɝˈaɪətəɫ/ (US) · /pˈæɹaɪətəl/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/parietal
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

relating to the side walls of a body part, like the skull or a flower. In medicine, it often describes the bones on the top and sides of the head.

For teachers: relating to the side walls of a body cavity or structure. In human anatomy, it specifically refers to the bones forming the upper and lateral parts of the skull.

## Examples

- The doctor examined the parietal bones of the skull.
- In botany, the parietal placenta is a type of seed attachment found in some flowering plants where the ovules are attached to the side of the ovary.
- The surgeon carefully navigated the parietal lobe to avoid damaging the areas responsible for sensory processing and spatial awareness during the delicate procedure.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.