brachycephalic

adjective

brachy·​ce·​phal·​ic ˌbra-ki-sə-ˈfa-lik 

: short-headed or broad-headed with a cephalic index of over 80

brachycephaly

ˌbra-ki-ˈse-fə-lē 

noun

Examples of brachycephalic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

While this particular noise has been dubbed as special, there are other noises a brachycephalic dog—breeds with short skulls and flat faces—may make that are a cause for concern. —Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 6 Dec. 2024

Modern Persian cats often suffer from brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), leading to snorting, wheezing and chronic respiratory distress. —Scott Travers, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024

French bulldogs, Boston terriers, cavalier King Charles spaniels and other brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds have become incredibly popular due to their unique appearance. —Lisa Bloch, The Mercury News, 19 Nov. 2024

For example, brachycephalic breeds like pugs have difficulty breathing in hot climates, while short-haired breeds may struggle in colder climates. —Lance Eliot, Forbes, 29 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin brachycephalus, from Greek brachy- + kephalē head — more at cephalic

First Known Use

circa 1852, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

brachycephalic

adjective

brachy·​ce·​phal·​ic ˌbrak-i-sə-ˈfal-ik 

: short-headed or broad-headed with a cephalic index of over 80

brachycephaly

-ˈsef-ə-lē 

noun

plural brachycephalies