PsychologyAugust 30, 2026

cranial

KRAY-nee-ul

Definition

Relating to the cranium, or the part of the skull that encloses the brain.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek word 'kranion' meaning 'skull,' the term entered English via New Latin in the 17th century to describe anatomical features associated with the braincase.

In the news

The author uses this term to criticize the way some modern trauma-healing approaches alarmingly suggest that traumatic events cause permanent damage to a person's physical cranial nerves.

We have been convinced that traumatic experiences are life sentences. Why?

Read the full article ↗

Psychology Today

Related words

archetypal

Relating to or representing an original model or ideal pattern from which other things of…

Psychology

atonement

The act of making amends or providing compensation for an offense or perceived wrong.

Psychology

contrite

Feeling or showing deep remorse, regret, or repentance for having committed a wrong.

Psychology

contrition

The sincere state of feeling remorse or guilt for one's actions, often accompanied by a…

Psychology

effacement

The act of removing oneself from notice or importance, often by being shy or modest.

Psychology

extradyadic

Existing or occurring outside of a specific dyad, or a pair, such as a primary romantic…

Psychology

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.