cheekbone

Definition

The small prominent bone of the cheek.

Etymology

From Middle English chekebon, chekbone, from Old English ċēacbān (“cheekbone”); equivalent to cheek + bone. Compare Dutch kaakbeen (“jawbone”).

Example Sentences

• "She was like a Beardsley Salome, he had said. And indeed she had the narrow eyes and the high cheekbone of that creature, and as nearly the sinuosity as is compatible with human symmetry."
• "A youngish-looking man came up to him, and aggressive-looking type with a hook mouth, a lantern nose, and small beady little cheekbones."